Unless otherwise noted, all events are virtual. Some events require an RSVP or enrollment in our programs, so please confirm your spot in advance. Please check directly with JFS on program dates, as dates may change.
Grandparenting: Expectations vs Reality
Join The J Kc on March 3, from 7 – 8:00 p.m. for a virtual workshop featuring Keynote Speaker: Barbara Unell Journalist, Author, Educator
Cost: FREE
Pre-registration required
Presented by: Beth Torah, Beth Shalom, HBHA, Jewish Family Services, Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, Ohev Sholom, Rabbinical Organization of Greater Kansas City, The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah, and The J
(After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.)
Description:
Congratulations, you are a grandparent! It’s so exciting, and an event you likely have been looking forward to for a long time. Will this new experience bring challenges, as well as joy? Absolutely! Join acclaimed journalist, author and educator, Barbara Unell as she shares an easy 3-step consistent approach to collaborative, supportive family relationships that turn those challenges into opportunities of resilience and respect.
Workshop Format:
- Keynote and opportunity for Q&A
- Breakout session pre-selected: see below for options
- Interactive sessions encouraging participation through Q & A
Breakout Session Options:
- A Drama-Free Cure for Today’s Behavior Blues
Facilitated by Barbara Unell
Join in this feel-good session to 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®, with one of the creators, Barbara Unell. Get your behavior questions answered and see, up close and personal, 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 Kathleen Halling JFS therapist
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, Congregation Beth Shalom
Are you looking for fun things to do with your grandchildren? Judy 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 Rabbi Beryl Paddor, Congregation Ohev Sholom
Join this thoughtful discussion about the unique challenges faced when your grandchildren are being raised in a different religion. Is it ok to share your Jewish customs and values? Can you still celebrate Jewish holidays together? Explore how to find acceptance of their choice while staying true to your Jewish heritage.
Start the new year with a weekly habit that brings happiness!
This Happiness Habits Wellness Series is a free and ongoing half-hour program in partnership between JFS, the Kansas City Public Library, and the Greater Kansas City Mental Health Coalition.
Register Here:
https://kclibrary.org/library-locations/adults-event/happiness-habits-5?
Jewish Family Services Mental Health team can provide needed support through its broad-reaching, holistic approach to mental health with the goal of enhancing the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
JFS provides services to all regardless of faith, age, culture, or lifestyle.
One current effort is Happiness Habits Wellness Series, a free and ongoing program in partnership between JFS, the Kansas City Public Library, and The Greater Kansas City Mental Health Coalition. (Note: The coalition has more than 35 members from across the metro.)
Happiness Habits is a half-hour program taking place at 3 p.m. Mondays via Zoom.
The focus is on how to manage the uncertainty of our daily lives with simple habits fostering happiness regardless of our circumstances. Each half-hour interactive program has a theme.
Happiness Habits Topics
March 8: Traditions that create Happiness
March 15: Media Intakes impact on Happiness
March 22: How Games can create Happiness
March 29: Finding Happiness Outside
The program is open to anyone, but registration is required through the library’s website.
In addition, JFS has a team of trained therapists and clinicians who can work with all ages and helping guide people through mental health conditions, behavioral health problems, relationship challenges, and aging issues. With the current COVID-19 situation, counselors are able to meet with clients via phone or Zoom. JFS offers a sliding scale with confidential financial assistance available. Whether it is a one-time visit or a need for ongoing support, JFS can help.
For more information, please email navigator@jfskc.org or call (913) 327-8250.
JFS is hosting a free Vaccination Clinic from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Oct. 11 in the White Theatre at The J, 5801 W 115th St, Overland Park, KS.
Pfizer Covid19 vaccines and flu shots will be offered. The Pfizer booster shots will be for ages 65+ or individuals with underlying medical conditions, and essential workers (teachers, grocery workers, and healthcare workers).
Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, email info@jfskc.org.