Parents sometimes come to me with a concern that sounds almost apologetic: “Cantor Ben, my child wants a Bar Mitzvah, but they really do not want a huge party. Is …
One of the most beautiful Bar Mitzvah ceremonies I recently had the privilege of officiating gave me an answer to a question more families should probably be asking: “Can a …
Parents sometimes ask me a question that would have sounded unusual a generation ago: “Cantor Ben, can my child really prepare for their entire Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah online?” …
One of the great misconceptions about Jewish education is that where your family lives determines what kind of Jewish education your child can receive. I regularly hear from parents who …
When a parent tells me their child is autistic, I do not immediately ask: “How are we going to get this child through a Bar Mitzvah?” I ask a very …
One of the questions I hear from parents sounds something like this: “Cantor Ben, my child has ADHD. They are bright and capable, but sitting still, concentrating for long periods, …
One of the most common worries I hear from parents sounds something like this: “My child is already eleven or twelve and has never been to Hebrew School. Did we …
Parents ask me many questions about Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah preparation. Will my child learn the Hebrew? Will they be ready for their Torah Portion? Will they feel confident …
For many families, preparing for a Bar Mitzvah or Bat Mitzvah begins with one simple goal. Learn the Hebrew. Master the Torah Portion. Stand confidently on the bimah. Celebrate with …
“My child gives up before even trying.” “I know they are capable, but they avoid anything that feels difficult.” “They would rather stay comfortable than risk making a mistake.” As …
“I gave my child everything I never had, but now I worry they do not appreciate any of it.” I hear versions of this concern from thoughtful parents all the …
For many children, starting high school feels like standing at the edge of a brand new world. Everything changes. New teachers. New classmates. A larger school. Greater expectations. More independence. …