Bar and bat mitzvah

Okay kiddo, so you know how when you turn a certain age, you become more grown-up and responsible? In the Jewish religion, when a boy turns 13 and a girl turns 12 or 13, they have a special ceremony called a bar or bat mitzvah.

At this ceremony, the boy or girl reads from the Torah (which is like a big book with lots of religious stories and rules) and shows that they are able to understand and follow the rules of their religion.

It's kind of like a test to show that they are mature enough to take on more responsibilities in their community, like leading prayers or helping out with charitable activities.

After the ceremony, there is usually a big party with family and friends to celebrate! So in a way, it's like becoming a little adult and being recognized for it.