BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Jewish Grandparents Network - ECPv6.17.3.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Jewish Grandparents Network 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 END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Halifax BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20210314T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20211107T050000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20220313T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20221106T050000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0300 TZNAME:ADT DTSTART:20230312T060000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0300 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:AST DTSTART:20231105T050000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE 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;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: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: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: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: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;TZID=America/New_York:20220913T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20220913T200000 DTSTAMP:20220812T162745Z CREATED:20220812T162427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220812T162745Z UID:10000047-1663095600-1663099200@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Family Room Live! Grandparents\, Bring the High Holidays 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/family-room-live-grandparents-bring-the-high-holidays-to-life/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220911 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220912 DTSTAMP:20220217T192429Z CREATED:20220217T192429Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220217T192429Z UID:10000024-1662854400-1662940799@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Grandparents 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/grandparents-day/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220905 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220906 DTSTAMP:20220127T181117Z CREATED:20220127T181117Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220127T181117Z UID:10000088-1662336000-1662422399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Labor 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/labor-day-2/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220709 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220710 DTSTAMP:20220617T205356Z CREATED:20220617T205356Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220617T205356Z UID:10000125-1657324800-1657411199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Chukat – family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-chukat-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220704 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220705 DTSTAMP:20220116T202234Z CREATED:20220116T202234Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220116T202234Z UID:10000078-1656892800-1656979199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Independence Day (July 4) 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/independence-day-july-4/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220702 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220703 DTSTAMP:20220617T205059Z CREATED:20220617T205059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220617T205059Z UID:10000124-1656720000-1656806399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Korach – family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-korach-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220625 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220626 DTSTAMP:20220617T204831Z CREATED:20220617T204831Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220617T204831Z UID:10000123-1656115200-1656201599@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Shelach– family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-shelach-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220619 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220620 DTSTAMP:20220226T202249Z CREATED:20220226T202249Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220226T202249Z UID:10000030-1655596800-1655683199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Father's 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/fathers-day/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220616 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220617 DTSTAMP:20220614T192223Z CREATED:20220614T191248Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220614T192223Z UID:10000122-1655337600-1655423999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Be'ha'alotecha– family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-behaalotecha-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Halifax:20220614T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Halifax:20220614T200000 DTSTAMP:20220601T211305Z CREATED:20220526T191828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220601T211305Z UID:10000117-1655233200-1655236800@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Family Room Live! How Grandparents Can Create a Family Culture of Giving to Others 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-grandparents-can-create-a-family-culture-of-tzedakah/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220611 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220612 DTSTAMP:20220531T162943Z CREATED:20220531T162943Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220531T162943Z UID:10000119-1654905600-1654991999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Naso– family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-naso-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220606 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220607 DTSTAMP:20220516T012300Z CREATED:20220516T012300Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220516T012300Z UID:10000112-1654473600-1654559999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Shavuot 2nd day (traditional communities) 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/shavuot-2nd-day-traditional-communities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220605 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220606 DTSTAMP:20220127T164442Z CREATED:20220116T202113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220127T164442Z UID:10000077-1654387200-1654473599@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Shavuot 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/shavuot/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220604 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220605 DTSTAMP:20220531T162333Z CREATED:20220531T162333Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220531T162333Z UID:10000118-1654300800-1654387199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Bamidbar– family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-bamidbar-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220604 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220605 DTSTAMP:20220516T012218Z CREATED:20220516T012218Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220516T012218Z UID:10000111-1654300800-1654387199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Erev Shavuot 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-shavuot/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220530 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220531 DTSTAMP:20220115T021206Z CREATED:20220115T021206Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220115T021206Z UID:10000066-1653868800-1653955199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Memorial 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/memorial-day/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220528 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220529 DTSTAMP:20220531T162553Z CREATED:20220516T104956Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220531T162553Z UID:10000116-1653696000-1653782399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Bechukotai – family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-bechukotai-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220524 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220525 DTSTAMP:20220516T012824Z CREATED:20220516T012636Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220516T012824Z UID:10000113-1653350400-1653436799@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Grandparent Story Contest: Winning Submission Performed Live 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/grandparent-story-contest-winning-submission-performed-live/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220521 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220522 DTSTAMP:20220531T162723Z CREATED:20220516T104758Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220531T162723Z UID:10000115-1653091200-1653177599@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Behar – family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-behar-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220519 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220520 DTSTAMP:20220116T201405Z CREATED:20220116T201405Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220116T201405Z UID:10000076-1652918400-1653004799@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Lag Ba'Omer 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/lag-baomer/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220514 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220515 DTSTAMP:20220425T150727Z CREATED:20220425T150727Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220425T150727Z UID:10000110-1652486400-1652572799@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Emor – family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-emor-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220508 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220509 DTSTAMP:20220516T012924Z CREATED:20220516T012924Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220516T012924Z UID:10000114-1651968000-1652054399@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Mother's 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/mothers-day-2/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220507 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220508 DTSTAMP:20220425T150826Z CREATED:20220425T150154Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220425T150826Z UID:10000109-1651881600-1651967999@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Parashat Hashavua (Portion of the Week) Kedoshim– family activities 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/parashat-hashavua-portion-of-the-week-kedoshim-family-activities/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20220505 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20220506 DTSTAMP:20220116T200949Z CREATED:20220116T200949Z LAST-MODIFIED:20220116T200949Z UID:10000075-1651708800-1651795199@jewishgrandparentsnetwork.org SUMMARY:Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israel 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/yom-haatzmaut-israel-independence-day/ END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR