By Carol Steinberg, New York, USA
“In the face of this devastating disease, we are all looking for that ‘moment’—a twinkle of joy, laughter, connection, or remembrance.”
I wrote the initial draft of my children’s book, Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly, more than 25 years ago: the week my father passed away from Alzheimer’s disease. At the time, I was a journalist, so it was natural that my grieving process included a creative outlet like this.
It was serendipity that I would leave my journalism career a few years later to take a communications position at a local nonprofit organization helping people impacted by Alzheimer’s or a related dementia (ADRD). I subsequently served for more than a dozen years as an executive at a national foundation with a similar mission.
Over the years, I periodically revisited the draft. I layered in myriad perspectives gained from years of interacting with experts and countless individuals impacted by dementia. I also often reflected on my dad’s journey with Alzheimer’s and my mom’s incredible selfless role as his care partner.
In addition, with all honesty, the book grew into its current form from regrets. At the time of my father’s illness, we, like many others, didn’t know where to turn for help and how critical resources can be for the person with the disease, care partners, and family members. I wish I had known then during our family’s experience with this devastating disease what I have learned since. Perhaps my then-young daughters and I would have interacted more deliberately, more joyfully with my dad/their Grandpa Michael.
As I tweaked Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly, my newer role as a grandmother also kicked in. In feeling the boundless love between myself and my four grandchildren, I strived to craft a children’s book reflecting the depth of an intergenerational relationship and its potential to continue strengthening no matter what obstacles emerge. Families should embrace this opportunity.
When a loved one has ADRD, children need to understand what is happening, overcome confusion and fear, and find new ways to foster a bond. It’s important not only to explain the disease to children but also to answer, Now what? How do we move forward from here?
Thus, Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly is two books in one.
- Part 1 is a tender story demonstrating the changing relationship between Lynnie and her grandfather, whom she affectionately calls Grandpa Meow. With sensitivity and age-appropriate language, the young child’s mom explains why Grandpa is forgetting things and behaving differently. This conversation and Lynnie’s subsequent actions powerfully convey that love prevails.
- Part II uniquely presents a collection of intergenerational activities such as music and gardening that build on the themes in Part I. Engaging in these pursuits can empower and connect young children and loved ones, aligning with a growing body of research demonstrating the positive impact of the creative arts and intergenerational programs for people with ADRD.
Both parts are designed to help children—primarily ages 5 through 12—and loved ones with ADRD “meet in the moment” at home or in care settings. With so much stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s, it’s critical to nurture kindness and understanding in children and adults, while giving people living with the disease the respect and love they deserve.
In readying Come Grandpa Meow, Let’s Fly for publication, I was fortunate to collaborate with Chelsea Cooper, a talented, thoughtful artist whose exquisite illustrations breathe life into my words. While the book’s realistic story and pictures evoke my family, they mirror the situation facing an increasing number of families worldwide. I hope this labor of love brings a glimmer of light to all who need it during this challenging journey.
About the Author
Carol Steinberg is an accomplished writer and editor. She served as an executive at local and national Alzheimer’s organizations and other nonprofits, leaning into her passion for the cause after her father passed away as a result of the disease. Previously, Carol was an award-winning journalist who regularly contributed to The New York Times, SUCCESS magazine, and other publications.
Connect with Carol
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