Resources to help you talk to your kids about tough topics.
The library has some backpacks designed to help you with this process but due to COVID-19, we cannot lend the backpacks out at this time. However, you can find most of the information contained within by clicking here.
Divorce and Separation
Alzheimer's/Dementia in a Loved One
Kids First Center 51 U.S. Route 1, Suite S Scarborough, ME 04074 207-761-2709 kidsfirstcenter.org
Kids First Center offers a variety of educational programs about separation, divorce, and co-parenting for parents, children, and professionals.
Alzheimer’s Association 383 US Route One, Suite 2C Scarborough, ME 04074 207-772-0115 or 800-272-3900 https://www.alz.org/maine
Alzheimer’s Association provides education and support to all those facing Alzheimer’s and other dementias throughout the community, including those living with the disease, caregivers, health care professionals, and families. They also advocate for the needs and rights of those facing the disease and for research toward methods of treatment, prevention, and a cure.
Death of a Loved One or Pet
The Center for Grieving Children 555 Forest Avenue Portland, ME 04101 207-775-5216 https://www.cgcmaine.org/
The Center for Grieving Children, based in Portland, serves more than 4,000 grieving children, teens, families, and young adults annually through peer support, outreach, and education. Since its founding in 1987, the Center for Grieving Children has served more than 66,000 children, teens, and their families.
Pet Loss Support Group Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland 217 Landing Road Westbrook, ME 04092 207-854-9771 https://arlgp.org/supportgroup/
The support group meets the first Monday of the month from 5:30-6:30 pm in the ARLGP Humane Education Classroom. Participants are encouraged to register prior to each session, so in case of inclement weather or scheduling conflicts we can notify attendees of cancellation.
Racism
EmbraceRace is a great nonprofit that works on supporting parents who want to talk to their kids about race. They have resources, booklists, and more!
Fuse #8, a blog on the School Library Journal network, has a great list of books and films to start with, organized by age.
Pretty Good Design has excellent resources about finding age-appropriate ways to talk to your children about race.
Here’s another book list that’s organized by topic, rather than age.
Podcasts can be a great way to get information too. Here are a few we really like: