And here we are told how to impart that knowledge. The compilers of the Haggadah explain that the word 'this' refers to the matzah and the maror - that the time to relate the story of the Exodus to the children is when the symbols of slavery and freedom are in front of us. Moreover, they should not be mere spectators, but active participants in the ceremony. Still, the question itself is one which is worth addressing. Perhaps to make life easier, we should have a family gathering for one night a year, and talk about the 'old times when we left Egypt'.
Actions mould character.
Therefore, continues the Chinuch, in the case of remembering the Redemption from slavery, G-d gave us many active mitzvot, designed to instill within us the memory of the Exodus. That does not mean that we necessarily wait until we understand the reason for a mitzvah before performing it, but it does mean that we should always be striving to understand more. Taking the Chinuch and the Malbim together, we are told to teach our children by example, by involvement combined with detailed explanations, each according to his or her ability. This explains why the time to relate the story of the Exodus to our children is when the symbols of slavery and freedom are in front of us, and why we need so many mitzvot and symbols. Teaching by practical example and always being prepared to listen to our children's questions is not only good educational psychology, it has also helped successive generations to feel that they themselves came out of Egypt.