The Moment My Son Begged Me to Put Down My Phone—and It Changed Everything

As Rosh Hashanah approaches, many of us are reflecting on the habits we need to change, both for our own personal growth and for the sake of our relationships. For me, one of those moments of reflection came a few days ago in the form of a simple but powerful request from my five-year-old son. While I was absorbed in my phone, he looked at me with those innocent eyes and said, “Daddy, can you put down your phone and play with me?”

That moment hit me hard. Here I was, distracted by something insignificant, while the most important person in the world to me was asking for something so simple—my time and attention. It was a stark reminder that being present isn’t just a nice thing to do; it’s essential. These small moments with my son, and with our loved ones in general, are what nourish our relationships, much like food and water nourish our bodies. They build the foundation for the future.

A New Year for New Habits

As we enter this season of reflection, many of us look to break bad habits—whether it’s using our phones too much, neglecting exercise, or letting relationships take a back seat. This year, I’m not just focusing on what I want to stop doing, but on what I want to build. The Jewish tradition teaches us to focus not only on repentance but also on teshuvah, or returning to the right path. It’s about getting back in touch with our best selves and being present for those we care about.

This Rosh Hashanah, my personal goal is to make the good moments non-negotiable. I’m committing to making time for family, for self-care, and for growth. And I want to challenge you to think about the habits you want to build. Whether it’s dedicating more time to studying the Weekly Torah Portion or spending intentional moments with family, let’s make these things priorities.

Our time and attention are the most valuable gifts we can give.

A Story from My Student Amanda

Let me share a story about one of my students, Amanda from San Diego. She’s preparing for her Bat Mitzvah through my Online Bar Mitzvah Lessons, and like many students today, Amanda has a packed schedule between school, sports, and other activities. Her parents wanted her Bat Mitzvah to be a meaningful journey, but it was becoming difficult to find the time to sit down and practice.

Through Online Bat Mitzvah Training, Amanda found the flexibility she needed to fit her Hebrew Education into her busy life. What made the biggest difference, though, wasn’t just the convenience of the program but the intentionality she and her family put into it. Every week, Amanda and her parents made time to study her Torah Portion together, setting aside all distractions. That small act of prioritizing her studies not only helped Amanda with her Bar Mitzvah Preparation Classes but also deepened the bond with her family. They were learning and growing together.

Amanda’s journey is a reminder that no matter how busy life gets, when we make something a priority, we can always find time for it. And whether it’s for Bar Mitzvah training or being present for our loved ones, the act of making time is a gift in itself.

Lessons for All of Us

What my son’s simple request and Amanda’s Bat Mitzvah preparation journey have in common is that they remind us to be present. Life can get busy—there’s no denying that. Between work, family commitments, and social obligations, it’s easy to get caught up in distractions. But being present, whether it’s spending time with family or studying for your Bar Mitzvah, is what creates meaningful, lasting connections.

This is a key principle in Jewish learning as well. When we engage with the Weekly Torah Portion or dive deep into Jewish Studies Courses, it’s not just about accumulating knowledge. It’s about creating a deeper understanding and connection with our heritage, our community, and ourselves. And much like family time, this connection requires us to be fully present.

How You Can Create Meaningful Habits

So how do we take this lesson into our daily lives? Start by identifying what really matters to you. For me, it’s family, health, and personal growth. For Amanda, it was her Bat Mitzvah and deepening her connection to her faith. Whether it’s making time for Hebrew Language Classes Online or setting aside time to be with loved ones, the key is to make these moments non-negotiable.

Here are a few practical steps to help you build better habits this year:

Schedule It: If it’s important, put it in your calendar. Whether it’s your child’s Bar Mitzvah training, your own personal study of the Torah Portion, or quality family time, treat it like an essential appointment.

Set Boundaries: Just like I had to put down my phone to be fully present with my son, set boundaries that allow you to focus. This might mean turning off notifications during your child’s Virtual Bar Mitzvah Lessons or scheduling family time where everyone is present—no phones allowed!

Reflect Regularly: As we approach Rosh Hashanah, take time to reflect on your progress. Ask yourself, “Am I being fully present in the areas that matter?” This self-reflection is key to maintaining focus and intention.

Commit to Growth: Whether you’re looking to grow spiritually through Jewish Studies Online or improve relationships, commit to lifelong learning. Platforms like Online Bar/Bat Mitzvah Tutoring and Hebrew Education Online offer flexible, engaging ways to continue your journey.

A New Year, A New Focus

As we head into this new year, let’s commit to building meaningful habits. Whether it’s through Online Jewish Education, focusing on family time, or simply being more present, these are the moments that will shape our future. My son’s simple request was a wake-up call, reminding me of what’s most important.

At CoolCantor Virtual Hebrew school we’re here to help you on your journey, whether that’s preparing for a Bar Mitzvah, learning to read Hebrew, or finding new ways to grow. Let’s make this year one of growth, connection, and being fully present.

Check out CoolCantor.com Hebrew School to explore our programs, from Hebrew Language Learning Programs to Bar Mitzvah Preparation Classes, and take that next step in your journey today.