Astoria Center of Israel

Astoria Center of Israel

The Path to B’nai Mitzvah

A Meaningful Milestone. A Personal Journey. A Community Celebration.

As a child approaches the age of readiness for becoming a B’nai Mitzvah (or an adult!), you may be wondering what comes next, when to start planning, and what this important milestone will look like for your family.

At the Astoria Center of Israel (ACI), we believe becoming a B’nai Mitzvah is about much more than preparing for a ceremony. It is an opportunity for children to deepen their connection to Judaism, discover their place in our Jewish community, and develop a meaningful relationship with Jewish traditions, values, and practices.

Every Journey Is Different

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to becoming a B’nai Mitzvah. Every person comes to this milestone with different interests, abilities, learning styles, experiences, and relationships with Judaism. Some may feel comfortable with Hebrew and prayer, while others may be discovering these traditions for the first time. Some may thrive in a group setting, while others benefit from individualized instruction and additional support.

At ACI, we believe the journey should reflect the individual, not the other way around. What matters most is creating an experience that is meaningful, engaging, and accessible, allowing each child to grow in confidence, develop their Jewish identity, and celebrate this important milestone in a way that feels right for them.

Whether your family has been part of the Jewish community for generations or is just beginning to explore Jewish traditions, there is a place for you here.

When Should We Start Thinking About B’nai Mitzvah?

Families are encouraged to begin exploring the B’nai Mitzvah journey approximately two years before their anticipated celebration. Starting early gives families time to learn about the program, understand the different preparation pathways, and work together to create an experience that reflects their child's interests, strengths, and abilities.

Whether your child is just beginning Hebrew School, already preparing for the next stage of Jewish learning, or approaching B’nai Mitzvah age, or you are an adult looking to reach this milestone at a more mature age, it is never too early to start a conversation.

What Does the Journey Involve?

Every is unique. At ACI, our approach emphasizes learning, participation, personal growth, and belonging.

Preparation may include:

  • Jewish Learning: Exploring Jewish history, traditions, holidays, Torah, and the values that shape Jewish life.

  • Hebrew and Prayer: Developing familiarity with Hebrew, prayers, and the traditions of the synagogue.

  • Torah and Leadership: Learning about the Torah and the responsibilities and opportunities that come with becoming a Jewish adult.

  • Community and Connection: Building relationships with peers, participating in synagogue life, and discovering what it means to be part of a Jewish community.

  • Personal Growth: Finding ways to make the experience meaningful and personal, celebrating each child's individual strengths and accomplishments.

  •  Review our B'nai Mitzvah packet for some more information.

Discover Shorashim: A New Approach to B’nai Mitzvah at ACI

As you begin exploring your child's B’nai Mitzvah journey, we encourage you to learn about Shorashim (שורשים), ACI's new B’nai Mitzvah program developed and led by Rabbi Noa Rubin.

Shorashim means "roots" in Hebrew. Just as the unique branches of a tree share common roots, we are all connected through Jewish history, tradition, and community, even as each of us grows along our own path.

Shorashim embraces the many ways children connect with Judaism, discover their identities, and find their voice within the Jewish community. It recognizes that every learner has their own story, strengths, questions, and experiences, and that there is no single path to becoming a B’nai Mitzvah.

An Inclusive and Individualized Learning Experience

Made possible through a grant from UJA in partnership with Matan, a Jewish disability inclusion organization, Shorashim is open to interested learners ages 10 and up, with ACI family membership.

The program brings together Jewish tradition and innovation in an inclusive, supportive, and engaging environment. With excellent tutors, dedicated mentors, and a welcoming community of peers, students of all abilities and Jewish backgrounds explore Jewish identity, meaning, and literacy through individualized learning.

And Shorashim is about much more than tutoring! Through social gatherings, educational programs, and opportunities to connect, students build friendships and lasting relationships with Jewish community and practice. The program combines rigorous learning with the fun and joy of preparing as part of a cohort, while emphasizing family involvement, personal growth, and each student's individual path.

Our goal is to create a space where every child can put down roots, find their own path, and flourish.

What Should You Do Next?

If your child is approaching B’nai Mitzvah age, 10+ (typically 12–13), now is a wonderful time to start planning and learning about the opportunities available at ACI. B'nai Mitzvah at ages beyond 12/13 are also an option. B'nai Mitzvah readiness looks different for every individual.

We encourage families to explore Shorashim and connect with Rabbi Noa Rubin to discuss timelines, expectations, and the different ways your child can participate. You do not need to have everything figured out before reaching out!

Interested in learning more about Shorashim?

We look forward to being part of this special milestone for your family and helping your child discover their own meaningful connection to Jewish life.