A Different Spirit

<p><b>A first-of-its-kind resource guide for inclusive b'nai mitzvah celebrations.</b></p><p>For too long, teens with special needs have been on the margins of the Jewish community. As for any child, their b'nai mitzvah should be a joyous time as they transition into adulthood and affirm their commitment to their community.</p><p><i>A Different Spirit: The Essential Guide to Creating Meaningful B'nai Mitzvah for Children With Disabilities</i> is designed to help clergy and families navigate creating a meaningful and inclusive celebration for all. This collection of essays includes inspiration and practical guidance on planning a celebration, managing accommodations and settings, and teaching children with special needs, as well as personal stories and a deep understanding of the concept of inclusion.</p><p>Edited by Howard Blas, the director of the National Ramah Tikvah Network which provides inclusion and vocational training programs support for young adults with disabilities in camps, and Emmy-award-winning Ilana Trachtman, director of the acclaimed documentary <i>Praying with Lior.</i></p><p>This resource discusses planning for teens with:</p><p></p><ul><li>Autism</li><li>Anxiety and other mental health issues</li><li>Visual impairment</li><li>Deafness</li><li>Non- and minimal speech</li><li>Mobility challenges</li><li>Learning differences</li></ul><p>Featuring contributions by Jacob Artson, Daniella Bardack-Tarrab, Meir Yishai Barth, Rabbi Allison L. Berry, Shelly Christensen, Rabbi Menachem Creditor, Wendy Elliott-Vandivier, Meredith Englander Polsky, Jennifer Fink, Elaine Hall, Dr. Sheldon H. Horowitz, Gabrielle Kaplan-Mayer, Matan A. Koch, Serena Leigh Krombach, MA, MSEd, Rabbi Darby Jared Leigh, Jessica Leving Siegel, Batya Sperling-Milner, Dr. David Neufeld, Rebecca Redner, Arlene Remz, Rabbi Rebecca Schatz, Pamela Rae Schuller, Dr. Stephen Shore, Rabbanit Aliza Sperling, and Rebecca Wanatick.</p><p></p>