BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Jewish Grandparents Network - ECPv6.17.3.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Jewish Grandparents Network REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:UTC BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:UTC DTSTART:20210101T000000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20210314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20211107T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20220313T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20221106T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20230312T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20231105T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220925 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220926 DTSTAMP:20220601T211726Z CREATED:20220601T211639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220601T211726Z UID:10000120-1664064000-1664150399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Erev Rosh Hashanah DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/erev-rosh-hashanah-2/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220926 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220928 DTSTAMP:20220927T134938Z CREATED:20220127T164830Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220927T134938Z UID:10000079-1664150400-1664323199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Rosh Hashanah DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/rosh-hashanah/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/flat-design-rosh-hashanah-concept_23-2148616345.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221005 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221006 DTSTAMP:20220927T135000Z CREATED:20220127T165004Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220927T135000Z UID:10000080-1664928000-1665014399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Yom Kippur DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/yom-kippur-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/realistic-yom-kippur-with-horn-with-food_23-2148640512.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221010 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221017 DTSTAMP:20220927T135019Z CREATED:20220127T180145Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220927T135019Z UID:10000081-1665360000-1665964799@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Sukkot DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/sukkot-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/placeholder3.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221017 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221018 DTSTAMP:20221012T193404Z CREATED:20220127T180448Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221012T193404Z UID:10000082-1665964800-1666051199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/shemini-atzeret-and-simchat-torah/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Kid-with-Torah-scroll-e1665602954555.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221018 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221019 DTSTAMP:20220722T003527Z CREATED:20220722T003527Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220722T003527Z UID:10000126-1666051200-1666137599@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Simchat Torah (Conservative) DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/simchat-torah-conservative-2/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221025T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221025T200000 DTSTAMP:20221022T005856Z CREATED:20220921T130757Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221022T005856Z UID:10000048-1666724400-1666728000@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Family Room Live! How to Talk with Your Grandchildren About... Almost Anything DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/family-room-live-how-to-talk-with-your-grandchildren-about-almost-anything/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Harriet-Wolpoff-3-curtesy-of-True-Photography-Video-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221108 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221109 DTSTAMP:20220613T180609Z CREATED:20220613T180609Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220613T180609Z UID:10000121-1667865600-1667951999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Election Day DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/election-day/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221122T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221122T200000 DTSTAMP:20221107T162718Z CREATED:20221103T124707Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221107T162718Z UID:10000050-1669143600-1669147200@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:How Feeling Thankful Builds Stronger Family Connections DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/how-feeling-thankful-builds-stronger-family-connections/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/How-Feeling-Thankful-Builds-Stronger-Family-Connections-500x500px.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221124 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221125 DTSTAMP:20221109T122109Z CREATED:20221026T200747Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221109T122109Z UID:10000049-1669248000-1669334399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Thanksgiving DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/thanksgiving-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Thanksgiving-2022.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221129T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221129T170000 DTSTAMP:20221111T192349Z CREATED:20221111T192349Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221111T192349Z UID:10000054-1669737600-1669741200@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:L'Dor Va'Dor: Affirming and Loving Your Transgender\, Non-Binary\, and Gender Expansive Grandchildren DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/ldor-vador-affirming-and-loving-your-transgender-non-binary-and-gender-expansive-grandchildren-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/November-29th-FR-Live-Event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221201T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221201T200000 DTSTAMP:20221107T162753Z CREATED:20221107T162753Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221107T162753Z UID:10000052-1669921200-1669924800@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:How to Bring Hanukkah to Life for Grandchildren DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/how-to-bring-hanukkah-to-life-for-grandchildren/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Jonathan-Shmidt-Chapmans-Hanukkah-500x500px.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20221215T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20221215T203000 DTSTAMP:20221111T194031Z CREATED:20221111T194031Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221111T194031Z UID:10000056-1671130800-1671136200@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Creating Safe & Affirming Spaces for Our Grandchildren DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/creating-safe-affirming-spaces-for-our-grandchildren/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/December-15th-FR-Live-Event.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221218 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221219 DTSTAMP:20220217T191533Z CREATED:20220127T180559Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220217T191533Z UID:10000083-1671321600-1671407999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Light 1st Hanukkah candle tonight DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/light-1st-hanukkah-candle-tonight/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221219 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221227 DTSTAMP:20221107T220206Z CREATED:20220127T180854Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221107T220206Z UID:10000084-1671408000-1672099199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Hanukkah DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/hanukkah-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Hanukkah-2022.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221225 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221226 DTSTAMP:20220127T180930Z CREATED:20220127T180930Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220127T180930Z UID:10000085-1671926400-1672012799@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Christmas DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/christmas-2/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221226 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221227 DTSTAMP:20220127T181038Z CREATED:20220127T181038Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220127T181038Z UID:10000086-1672012800-1672099199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Christmas Day observed DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/christmas-day-observed/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230110T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230110T200000 DTSTAMP:20221130T225444Z CREATED:20221130T152828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221130T225444Z UID:10000058-1673377200-1673380800@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:How to Talk with your Preteen and Teen Grandchildren about Antisemitism DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/how-to-talk-to-your-preteen-and-teen-grandchildren-about-antisemitism/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/How-to-Talk-to-your-Preteen-and-Teen-Grandchildren-about-Antisemitism.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230131T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230131T200000 DTSTAMP:20230130T153451Z CREATED:20230102T184219Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230130T153451Z UID:10000060-1675191600-1675195200@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Our Adult Children's Voices Matter: What Parents Want Grandparents to Know DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/our-adult-childrens-voices-matter-what-parents-want-grandparents-to-know/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Our-Adult-Childrens-Voices-Matter_350x350px.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230206 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230207 DTSTAMP:20230130T152856Z CREATED:20230130T125302Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230130T152856Z UID:10000128-1675641600-1675727999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Tu BiShvat DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/tu-bishvat-2/ CATEGORIES:Holidays ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Tu-BiShvat_350x350px.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230221T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230221T200000 DTSTAMP:20230301T173829Z CREATED:20230124T162625Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230301T173829Z UID:10000127-1677006000-1677009600@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:How to Bring Purim to Life for Grandchildren DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/how-to-bring-purim-to-life-for-grandchildren/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/How-to-Bring-Purim-to-Life-for-Granchildren_350x350px.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230307 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230308 DTSTAMP:20230130T152740Z CREATED:20230123T204905Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230130T152740Z UID:10000062-1678147200-1678233599@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Purim DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/purim-2/ CATEGORIES:Holidays ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Purim_March-7th-2023_350x350px.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230328T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230328T200000 DTSTAMP:20230315T145906Z CREATED:20230301T173915Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230315T145906Z UID:10000133-1680030000-1680033600@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:How to Bring Passover to Life for Grandchildren DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/how-to-bring-passover-to-life-for-grandchildren/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/How-to-Bring-Passover-to-Life-for-Grandchildren-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230405 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230406 DTSTAMP:20230315T160531Z CREATED:20230223T170223Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230315T160531Z UID:10000129-1680652800-1680739199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Passover\, first seder DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/passover-first-seder/ CATEGORIES:Holidays ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Passover_first-seder_4.5.23.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230406 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230407 DTSTAMP:20230322T180425Z CREATED:20230223T170454Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230322T180425Z UID:10000130-1680739200-1680825599@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Passover\, first day DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/passover-first-day/ CATEGORIES:Holidays ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Passover_first-day_4.6.23.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230412 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230413 DTSTAMP:20230223T170605Z CREATED:20230223T170605Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230223T170605Z UID:10000131-1681257600-1681343999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Passover\, last day (Reform) DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/passover-last-day-reform-2/ CATEGORIES:Holidays END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230413 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230414 DTSTAMP:20230223T170824Z CREATED:20230223T170824Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230223T170824Z UID:10000132-1681344000-1681430399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Passover\, last day (Conservative) DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/passover-last-day-conservative-2/ CATEGORIES:Holidays END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230418 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230419 DTSTAMP:20230410T185212Z CREATED:20230410T185212Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230410T185212Z UID:10000135-1681776000-1681862399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Yom Hashoah\, Holocaust Remembrance Day DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/yom-hashoah-holocaust-remembrance-day/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Yom-Hashoah-Holocaust-Remembrance-Day_April-26-2023.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20230418T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20230418T200000 DTSTAMP:20230424T010411Z CREATED:20230322T200414Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230424T010411Z UID:10000134-1681844400-1681848000@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:How to Navigate Family Relationships: Jewish Tools That Can Help DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/how-to-navigate-family-relationships-jewish-tools-that-can-help/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/How-to-navigate-family-relationships_Jewish-tools-that-can-help_4.18.23.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230426 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230427 DTSTAMP:20230410T185702Z CREATED:20230410T185702Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230410T185702Z UID:10000136-1682467200-1682553599@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Israel’s Independence Day DESCRIPTION:Reading books about death and dying with children can be a safe way to explore complex emotions\, help them understand the concept of mortality\, and serve as a launching point for important conversations with trusted adults.  When choosing books\, consider the children in your life — their level of understanding and maturity\, and their reading level. Most children’s books are written for a specific age range. Yet\, you may find that a young children’s book meets the needs of older children for the direct and straightforward way it addresses the topic of death — that transcends ages.   Some of the following books explicitly include Jewish traditions and ideas\, while others are more universal in their approach.  Note: Descriptions are taken directly from the publishers’ or authors’ websites.  \n \n \n \n Children’s Picture Books About Death  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Goodbye Book\, By Todd Parr (ages 3–6)Through the lens of a pet fish who has lost his companion\, Todd Parr tells a moving and wholly accessible story about saying goodbye. Touching upon the host of emotions children experience\, Todd reminds readers that it’s okay not to know all the answers\, and that someone will always be there to support them.  When Dinosaurs Die\, By Laurie Krasny Brown\, Illustrated by Mark Brown (4–8)To children\, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member\, friend\, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death\, providing answers to kids’ most-often asked questions.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n I Have a Question About Death\, By Arlen Grad Gaines & Meredith Englander Polsky (5–11)Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child\, perhaps even more so when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. The first book of its kind\, I Have a Question about Death uses straightforward text and images and is designed specifically to help all children understand what happens when someone dies.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Children’s Books About the Death of a Parent/Grandparent/Loved One \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sitting Shiva\, By Erin Silver\, Illustrated by Michelle Theodore (3–5)A little girl grieves the loss of her mother\, but she can’t grieve alone. When her friends and family arrive at her house to sit shiva\, laden with cakes and stories\, she refuses to come downstairs. But the laughter and memories gradually bring her into the fold\, where she is comforted by her community.   Nana Upstairs\, Nana Downstairs\, By Tomie dePaola (3–7)Tommy is four years old\, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother\, Nana Downstairs\, and his great-grandmother\, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy’s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won’t be there anymore\, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n French Toast Sundays\, By Gloria Spielman (4–8)When Mina’s beloved Grandma dies\, nothing feels right anymore. People come to visit. Mina just hides up in the big old oak tree. But the stories she hears about Grandma bring her slowly back down until at last Mina feels ready to smile again.  A Flame Burns On\, By Richard Ho\, Illustrated by Carmel Ben Ami (4–8) Each year\, a girl and her mom light a yahrzeit candle on the anniversary of an uncle’s passing.  Even though she was young when he died\, her memories of him shine bright and clear: all the times they went camping\, read together\, and how he was there for every birthday. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Remembering Candle\, By Alison Goldberg\, Illustrated by Selina Alko (6–8)Grandpa died last November. Now\, one year later on the anniversary of his death\, a boy and his family light a yahrzeit candle to remember him\, and it will burn all night and all day tomorrow until sunset. The boy and his family spend the next night and day remembering Grandpa and sharing stories with each other. Shortlisted for the National Jewish Book Awards Stones for Grandpa\, By Renee Londner\, Illustrated by Martha Aviles (5–9)A little boy and his family gather at the cemetery for the unveiling of his grandpa’s gravestone\, bringing stones to place on the grave\, in the Jewish custom. They tell stories that help the boy deal with his loss\, reminding him of the wonderful memories he has of his grandpa.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n The Turquoise Butterfly\, By Dale V. Atkins\, PhD\, Illustrated by Amelina Jones (4–12)Every summer\, Victoria travels to Grandma Sylvia’s house for an exciting adventure. Grandma embodies the spirit of a vibrant butterfly\, but Victoria is often filled with bubbling nerves\, which leaves her scared and confused. Throughout Victoria’s journeys over several summers\, she navigates the winds of change with Grandma by her side. The Turquoise Butterfly explores our vulnerabilities and unique strengths in this multigenerational\, heartwarming tale.  When a Grandparent Dies: A Kid’s Own Remembering Workbook for Dealing with Shiva and the Year Beyond\, By Nechama Liss-Levinson\, PhD (7–13)The death of a grandparent is often a child’s first encounter with grief. Why did this happen? What should I do? How do I feel? When a Grandparent Dies helps children to participate in the process of mourning\, and to overcome the awkwardness that can often accompany the traditional grieving rituals and events.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Where is Grandpa Dennis\, By Michelle Shapiro Abraham\, Illustrated by Janice Fried (6–10)The daughter [in this book] is named for her grandfather [though she] never knew him. Her mother uses pictures and verbal memories to sketch out why Grandpa Dennis was such an important person in the family.  Will I Ever Be Happy Again\, By Rabbi Avidan Milevsky (2–8)Designed for Orthodox-observant familiesWhen a special person dies\, it can be confusing for the children who were close. Will I Ever Be Happy Again? combines a child-friendly explanation of the post-death Jewish rituals with activities that encourage children to express their thoughts in words and pictures\, helping them cope with their loss.  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Additional Recommended Resources \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Book Lists:   Good Reads: YA Death & Dying Books Kveller.com PJ Library Tablet Magazine Podcasts  NPR — The Dog isn’t Sleeping: How to Talk with Children About Death Park Avenue Synagogue — How We Talk About Death and Dying The Dougy Center — Let’s Hear it for the Kids: Grief in Their Own Words Videos BimBam — How to Talk to Your Kids About DeathDaniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — Blue Fish is DeadSesame Street — Big Bird Learns About Death  Banner photograph courtesy of Unsplash  URL:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/event/israels-independence-day/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Israels-Independence-Day_April-26-2023.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR