Like Father, Like Son: Celebrating Father’s Day in Kyiv, Ukraine
This Father’s Day, we interview two families who participate in a father-son program in Kyiv, Ukraine.
By Igor Temnikov and Igor Skybun | June 17, 2021
This Father’s Day, we interview two families who participate in “Like Father, Like Son,” a program at the JDC-supported JCC Halom in Kyiv, Ukraine that uses educational and recreational activities to strengthen bonds between fathers and their sons.
JCC Halom makes it possible for us to sustain and develop Jewish life in Kyiv. From Jewish history to traditions, it’s such an important educational resource.
The Temnikov Family (father Igor and son Misha)
Tell us about your son. What do you admire about him? And why is it important to spend time with him?
My son Misha is 11 years old, and he’s a very responsive and kind person. I’m proud of his ability to help anyone in need, and I think that this quality is important for any person living in today’s world.
How did you get involved with “Like Father, Like Son”? What sort of activities have you participated in? And why is this group important for your family?
I was already a part of Halom when I joined “Like Father, Like Son.” My son and I have enjoyed recreational activities, like bowling, and gotten to know each other more. I love spending time with him, and I appreciate the way Halom organizes the events.
Why is JCC Halom an important institution for the Kyiv Jewish community?
Halom makes it possible for us to sustain and develop Jewish life in Kyiv. In addition to the various social events that the JCC organizes, children also get to learn about Jewish history and traditions; Halom is such an important educational resource.
What is your family’s Jewish story?
When my grandfather was young, he studied at yeshiva and observed Jewish traditions. But during World War II, my grandparents had to evacuate the city. Because of Soviet rule, Jewish life and traditions were almost lost. Now, though, it’s possible for us to raise our children according to Jewish traditions and culture, and Halom helps us realize this.
What are the most important lessons you are trying to teach your son? What do you hope he learns from you?
My most important goal is to raise my son to be an honest and decent person. In everything I do as a parent, I keep this goal in mind.
How has the pandemic impacted your relationship?
During the pandemic, my son and I have gotten to spend a lot of time together, and have grown really close as a result.
The Skybun family (father Igor and son Elisey)
Tell us about your son. What do you admire about him? And why is it important to spend time with him?
My son Elisey is 8 years old. He does judo, studies English, and has already finished the 2nd grade. He’s an energetic, cheerful, and intelligent boy. It’s very important for me to develop myself as a father, to teach him all that I know, and just to spend time together.
How did you get involved with “Like Father, Like Son”? What sort of activities have you participated in? And why is the group important for your family?
My children, Elisey and Dasha, attend many fun events organized by Yahad, Halom’s teen club. Polina, the program director for Yahad, told us about the project and invited us to its first activity.
All the events are so much fun. We’ve done bowling, Shabbat celebrations, and havdalah. Now we’re planning summer activities. My son and I are very happy to participate in this project; I like the atmosphere and the way that Halom organizes the events.
Why is JCC Halom an important institution for the Kyiv Jewish community?
It’s very important for my family to be surrounded by people who share Jewish values and teach their children Jewish traditions.
Halom gives us a space to learn alongside our kids, share experiences, and discover new things.
What is your family’s Jewish story?
During the Soviet regime, our family had to hide their Judaism. My grandparents even changed their names. Under threat of death, almost all of the Jewish traditions passed down through generations were forgotten. We almost lost everything. Now we are rediscovering the world of the Jewish culture, and Halom is a big part of that.
What are the most important lessons you are trying to teach your son? What do you hope he learns from you?
I’m trying to teach him that the sky’s the limit. If you want to achieve something, you need to set a goal, think about what’s needed to achieve it, and go ahead. Life consists of ups and downs. All hardships pass. But the crucial point is to achieve your goals, remember that family is the most important thing, and treat people the way you want to be treated.
How has the pandemic impacted your relationship?
I’ve started communicating with him more and spending more time playing games and having interesting discussions. Thanks to “Like Father, Like Son,” and JCC Halom more fully, my son and I have become close indeed.
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