Brit Milah & Simchat Bat Checklist
A new baby brings joy — and very little time. This checklist helps new parents and grandparents prepare the brit milah within eight days, or a simchat bat or naming for a girl, with a contact sheet for the mohel, rabbi, caterer and family.
The timing of a brit depends on the time of birth and on the baby’s health; the mohel and your doctor decide together. If the eighth day falls on Shabbat or Yom Tov, ask your rabbi. Customs differ between communities.
Preview: the first steps
Before the birth
- Choose a mohel your rabbi recommends and save the number.
- Think about the sandek, kvatter (godparents) and honors.
- Ask a caterer or bakery about short-notice breakfast or kiddush packages.
- Discuss names, and the customs of both families.
Days 1–2
- Call the mohel with the exact date and time of birth; he will confirm the brit date with you and the pediatrician.
- Tell the rabbi and reserve the location (shul, home or hall).
- Friday night after a boy’s birth: many families host a shalom zachor.
The full timeline, budget worksheet and supplier tracker are in the free PDF.
South Florida tips
- Keep this checklist and the mohel’s number on the fridge before the due date.
- Short-notice catering is easier on weekdays — ask KlalFlorida caterers about brit packages.
- Ask a relative to coordinate guests and food so the parents can rest.