It’s a status so many can’t wait to achieve — that of grandparent. However, is being a grandparent what you expected? Will this new experience bring challenges, as well as joy? Absolutely!
Join Barbara Unell at 7 p.m., Wednesday, March 3, for a free Grandparenting Workshop: Expectations vs. Reality. Unell, an acclaimed journalist, author and educator, will share an easy three-step consistent approach to forming collaborative, supportive family relationships, turning those challenges into opportunities of resilience and respect.
This virtual community program is presented by Jewish Family Services, The Jewish Community Center, Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, The Rabbinical Association of Kansas City and Congregations Beth Shalom, Beth Torah, Ohev Sholom and The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah.
“It’s so rewarding to be able to provide such an important collaborative community program,” said Susie Hurst, director of family life education with Jewish Family Services. “It became evident to all of us that it was time to offer grandparents information, ideas and strategies to help them enrich their experiences in this gratifying, and sometimes challenging, role.”
The March 3 program includes a presentation by Unell, a Q&A session, followed by four breakout sessions:
“A Drama-Free Cure for Today’s Behavior Blues” facilitated by Unell. Find your comfort- and confidence-zone with your grandchild’s behavior in today’s new oh-so-stressful world, where play, school and everything else feels unpredictable. Check into the online tool, Behavior Checker, that Unell helped create and learn how this tool helps lead to healthier relationships and enhances the lifelong mental, physical and emotional health of adults and children.
“Navigating Complex Family Relationships in your Role as Grandparent” facilitated by JFS Therapist Kathleen Halling. Explore ideas for negotiating roles and boundaries with your adult children. Gain insight in why boundaries matter and how to work together to strengthen your relationships by keeping communication open.
“Engaging with Your Grandkids: Creative Ways to Connect in Person and Long Distance” facilitated by Judy Jacks Berman, director of early childhood education at Congregation Beth Shalom. Are you looking for fun things to do with your grandchildren? Jacks Berman will share ideas and demonstrate activities to make your time with your grandkids special and help you create long-lasting memories.
“When your Grandchildren are not Being Raised Jewish” facilitated by Ohev Sholom’s Rabbi Beryl Padorr. Join this thoughtful discussion about the unique challenges faced when your grandchildren are being raised in a different religion. Explore how to find acceptance of their choice while staying true to your Jewish heritage.
Registration for the workshop is required and can be found at thejkc.org. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the workshop.
Unell’s career has been focused on children and families. She is the co-founder of many local and national publications, including the first national magazine for parents of multiples, TWINS Magazine, and the first local city magazine for families, Kansas City Parent, both of which are reaching a new generation of families today. Unell is also the co-founder of community-based programs in health, learning and behavior, including Behavior Checker, Baby Buffer, Uncle Dan’s Report Card, LEAP!, Synergy Services’ Kindness is Contagious…Catch It! and the Blue Valley School District’s Sunflower Ambassadors.
As a co-author, her 17 books include the international best seller with Jerry L. Wyckoff, “Discipline with Love and Limits,” which has been translated into 27 languages.
“We are thrilled Barbara is our keynote speaker sharing her wonderful expertise and insight with us,” Hurst said.
For questions or more information, contact Hurst at JFS, .
