Care and Comfort Kits – Morris Area Public Library

Navigating life’s ups and downs is easier with the right resources by your side. Our Care and Comfort Kits are designed to provide resources, guidance, and a little comfort when you need it most.

What are Care and Comfort Kits?
These curated kits are themed collections of books, activities, and helpful materials tailored to specific life events. They are available to check out for two weeks and are intended to offer a source of support and understanding for both individuals and families during challenging or significant life changes.

Topics include:

Separation and divorce can be challenging for the whole family. This kit includes books for children, teens, and adults to help navigate emotions, foster communication, and provide reassurance. With engaging stories and practical resources, families can find comfort and understanding during this transition.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: Standing on My Own Two Feet: A Child’s Affirmation of Love in the Midst of Divorce
Hardcover Picture Book: You Make Your Parents Super Happy! A Book about Parents Separating
Hardcover Picture Book: Two Homes Filled with Love: A Story about Divorce and Separation
Hardcover Picture Book: The Wonderful Things You Will Be
Teen Resource: 200 Conversation Cards: Conversation Starters for Adults to Connect with Teenagers
Adult Nonfiction Book: I Just Want This Done: How Smart, Successful People Get Divorced without Losing their Kids, Money, and Minds

Resources for Experiencing a Divorce

https://dmh.lacounty.gov/our-services/employment-education/education/divorce/ – An article on the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health explains how to help a child adjust to a divorce and cope with the changes.
https://sunshinebehavioralhealth.com/resources/divorce-mental-health/ – An extensive article that covers topics ranging from the causes of divorce to the warning signs you should look out for in someone who is experiencing a divorce. Getting support and putting your health first is strongly emphasized in this article.
https://www.talkspace.com/blog/how-to-deal-with-divorce/ – This article offers nine tips that help people who are going through the process of divorce, from establishing a support system to finding new interests. NOTE: There is a paragraph at the end advertising a service.
https://www.choosingtherapy.com/divorce-and-children/ – An article that specializes on the impact of divorce on children. It details every symptom during the divorce and lists potential solutions and resources at the end.
https://www.thecarlatreport.com/articles/4466-divorce-and-mental-health – An overview of factors relevant to divorce, from how it affects different genders to financial impacts.

Starting at a new school can bring excitement and nervousness. This kit includes books that help ease first-day jitters, conversation cards to spark discussions, and stories about making new friends and adjusting to a different environment.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: The Crayons Go Back to School
Hardcover Picture Book: First Day of School
Hardcover Picture Book: Benny the Brave in The First Day Jitters
Youth Chapter Book: Odder
Teen Graphic Novel: New Kid
Set of 400 Conversation Cards for Kids

Resources for Going to a New School

https://articles.unishanoi.org/psychological-effects-of-moving-schools/ – An article detailing the psychological effects of moving to a new school and how to help your child transition.
https://schools.au.reachout.com/articles/10-tips-for-starting-at-a-new-school – An article that gives 10 tips for when you’re going to a new school.
https://www.miracle-recreation.com/blog/helping-children-transition-easily-into-a-new-school-environment/ – An article that gives advice on how to help your child transition into a new school.

When a loved one is incarcerated, children and families may experience a range of emotions. This kit provides age-appropriate books that address questions, emotions, and ways to stay connected.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: Far Apart, Close in Heart: Being a Family when a Loved One is Incarcerated
Hardcover Picture Book: The Night Dad Went to Jail: What to Expect When Someone You Love Goes to Jail
Postcards

Resources for the Incarceration of a Loved One

https://www.prisonfellowship.org/resources/support-friends-family-of-prisoners/ – This website provides resources, articles and access to support groups for those dealing with the incarceration of a loved one.
https://www.restorejustice.org/our-work/communities-relatives-of-illinois-incarcerated-children/ – Restore Justice works with Communities and Relatives of Illinois Incarcerated Children (CRIIC) in order to help those who have incarcerated relatives. This page offers information on CRIIC and how to get in contact with them for support.
https://schulzelaw.com/how-to-cope-with-a-loved-one-going-to-jail/ – A website explaining how traumatic arrest can be and how to cope when your loved one is going to jail.

Blending families can be both rewarding and challenging. This kit offers books that celebrate diverse family dynamics and provide guidance on co-parenting and adjusting to new relationships.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: Remixed: A Blended Family
Hardcover Picture Book: A Family is a Family is a Family
Hardcover Picture Book: Florence and Her Fantastic Family Tree
Adult Nonfiction Book: Blend: The Secret to Co-Parenting
Wooden Doll Family Toys

Resources for Living as a Blended Family

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/parenting-family/step-parenting-blended-families.html – A helpful article that explains what a blended family is and the exact steps you should take to allow your families to successfully come together. The article also details problems that may arise and how kids of different ages or genders may handle the changes.
https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/family-diversity/blended-families-stepfamilies/blended-families – A great website that offers information about families and raising children. The article on this website dives into the pros, cons, and challenges of being a blended or step family.
https://www.drmessina.com/blog/adapting-as-a-blended-family – An article that outlines the struggles and stresses that a bended family might endure and how to overcome them.

Grief is a personal journey, but support can make it easier. This kit includes books for children and adults to help process emotions, remember loved ones, and find hope in healing. Additional resources provide further guidance for navigating loss.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: When Someone Dies; A Child’s Mindful How-To-Guide on Grief and Loss
Hardcover Picture Book: The Memory Box: A Book About Grief
Hardcover Picture Book: Something Very Sad Happened; A Toddler’s Guide to Understanding Death
Hardcover Picture Book: How High is Heaven?
Adult Nonfiction Book: Finding the Words; Working Through Loss with Hope and Purpose
Squishy Pig Toy

Resources for the Loss of a Loved One

https://www.orderofthegooddeath.com/resources/talking-about-death/#talking-to-children – A resource on talking about death with children.

https://www.thesharingplace.org/services/resources/ – The Sharing Place frequently works with professionals in the community who are often the first to know when a child has lost a family member. Whether you’re a school teacher or counselor, nurse, pediatrician, or therapist, this can assist you by providing information to share with students or patients.

https://www.orderofthegooddeath.com/article/therapy-mental-health-and-death-positivity/ – An article written by a deathcare advocate on how to talk about death with friends, family, and others in your life.

https://www.mhanational.org/bereavement-and-grief – An online resource on coping with loss, what to expect, mourning, living with grief, helping others, and more

Losing a pet is a profound loss, especially for children. This kit provides books that help process grief, honor memories, and find comfort. A soothing heartbeat toy offers additional reassurance during this time.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: The Garden of Lost Balls
Hardcover Picture Book: Dog Heaven
Hardcover Picture Book: How Far is Heaven?
Teen Nonfiction Book: Repairing the Heartbreak of Pet Loss Grief: 3 Phases of Healing After Losing Your Best Friend
Dog Heartbeat Soothing Toy

Resources for Loss of a Pet

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/grief/coping-with-losing-a-pet.html – A website explaining why we grieve pets, how to cope with the loss and advice for seniors and children who lost a pet. This article also offers advice on if it is your pet’s time to go and what you could do.
https://www.lapoflove.com/pet-loss-support-resources – A site specializing in animal related topics that offers support and advice as well as resources to get help in the event of the loss of a pet. They provide keepsakes and memorials.
https://www.choosingtherapy.com/loss-of-a-pet/ – An article explaining 10 ways to cope in the event of the loss of a pet as well as how grief works.
https://societyforpsychotherapy.org/traumatic-pet-loss/ – The society for the advancement of psychotherapy wrote an article explaining what traumatic pet loss is, how it affects us and how we can cope with it.

Moving can bring excitement, uncertainty, and big emotions. This kit provides books to help children and families adjust to a new home, say goodbye, and embrace fresh beginnings. Additional resources offer guidance on managing the emotional impact of moving.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: Evelyn Del Ray is Moving Away
Hardcover Picture Book: You are Ready! The World is Waiting
Hardcover Picture Book: See You Later Alligator!
Hardcover Picture Book: I Love You Near and Far!
Toy Travel Kit

Resources for Moving to a New Place

https://justmovein.com/blog/moving-home/mental-health-moving-house-what-you-need-to-know – An article describing how moving can impact both your physical and mental health and it provides tips on easing the burden.
https://www.allaroundmoving.com/the-mental-health-benefits-of-moving-ways-relocating-can-recharge-your-mind/ – This article describes the benefits that moving has on mental health, such as giving you a fresh start in life and allowing you to self-reflect.
https://www.allaroundmoving.com/the-mental-health-benefits-of-moving-ways-relocating-can-recharge-your-mind/ – Crossroads health describes what relocation depression is and how to cope with the challenges of moving.

Hospitals can feel intimidating, especially for children. This kit includes books that explain medical procedures in a comforting way and a doctor playset to encourage familiarity and reduce fear.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: A Sleepy Tale; My First Surgery
Hardcover Picture Book: Peppa Pig Goes to Hospital
Hardcover Picture Book: Surgery on Sunday
Doctor Play Set

Resources for Visiting the Hospital

https://www.thefyi.org/anxiety-around-a-loved-one-who-is-hospitalized/ – A very helpful article that gives advice on how to stay calm when a loved one is hospitalized.
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/blog/visit-someone-in-hospital – The Do’s and Don’ts of visiting someone in the hospital.
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/visitors-in-hospital – Information on what to expect and what to do when you visit a hospital.

Adoption is a beautiful journey of love and belonging. This kit provides books that celebrate adoption, answer questions, and help children understand their place in their new family.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: I Wished for You
Hardcover Picture Book: A Crocodile in the Family
Hardcover Picture Book: A is for Always; An Adoption Alphabet
Hardcover Picture Book: Love Rules: A Family’s True Story of Adoption and Unconditional Love
Baby Doll Toy

Resources for Welcoming an Adopted Family Member

https://chsva.org/foster-care-adoption/how-adoptive-parents-can-prepare-their-home/ – This list shows the different ways that parents can create a welcoming and safe environment for a new adopted child.
https://www.209law.com/6-tips-to-help-kids-adjust-when-welcoming-an-adopted-sibling/ – An article that gives 6 tips on how to help children adjust when they’ve been adopted.
https://bumfs.org/five-ways-to-bond-with-your-adopted-child/ – An article that gives 5 tips on how to bond with an adopted child.
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-are-the-mental-health-effects-of-being-adopted-5217799 – An article detailing the effects that being adopted can have on mental health.

Becoming a big brother or sister is an exciting transition! This kit includes books that prepare children for their new role and a baby doll toy to encourage bonding and care.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: I am a Big Brother!
Hardcover Picture Book: I am a Big Sister!
Hardcover Picture Book: You are the Biggest
Baby Doll Toy

Resources for Welcoming a Newborn Sibling

https://theeverymom.com/tips-for-introducing-your-child-to-a-new-baby-sibling/ This list includes helpful tips on how parents can help their older children welcome a new sibling.
https://childmind.org/article/preparing-child-new-sibling/ – This article explains in detail how children can act when expecting a younger sibling, how to react to such behaviors, and how to prepare them at different stages of their life. A Spanish version is also available.
https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/positive/big-sibling-blues/ An expert provides insight on how kids can prepare to welcome a new sibling at various ages. It also includes a section on dealing with sibling jealousy.

Bringing home a new pet is a big responsibility. This kit includes books that teach children about pet care, responsibility, and the joy of having a furry friend. A pet care playset encourages interactive learning.

Included in the kit:

Hardcover Picture Book: Little Kids First Big Book of Pets
Hardcover Picture Book: I Found a Kitty!
Hardcover Picture Book: Can I Be Your Dog?
Pet Care Play Set

Resources for Welcoming a Pet

https://lucydanielscenter.org/childrens-mental-health/welcoming-a-pet-into-your-family/ – Information on the effects that a new pet has on children and provides insight into the type of relationship young children will have with their pets depending on their age.
https://habri.org/blog/mental-health-month-2023/ – A short article describing the benefits that pets have on our mental health and how they help us be caring and have a healthy routine.
https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/introducing-new-pet-your-household – The Human Society wrote tips to smoothly and slowly introduce a new pet into your home to allow you, your family, and the new pet to adjust.

Borrowing Information

Kits are available for Morris Area Public Library patrons only.
Loan period: 2 weeks
No renewals allowed.
Eligible for late fees: $1 per day

How to Borrow:
Visit the Library of Things section in our catalog to place a hold or stop by the library to check out a Care and Comfort Kit today. Our staff is happy to help you select the kit that best fits your current needs.

Additional Resources

https://namiwillgrundy.org/ – Find mental health support for yourself, someone you know, or additional training and resources from NAMI Will-Grundy.
https://challengingbehavior.org/implementation/family-engagement/ – Explore the printables on NCPI Family Engagement for help building behavior regulation, friendship skills, emotional literacy, and problem-solving skills at home.
https://mhanational.org/ – Find resources, helplines, and information about various mental health issues on Mental Health America.
https://815941help.com/ – Find local resources through a Grundy-specific information and referral system online or by calling 815-941-HELP.
https://www.morrishospital.org/ems-system/mental-health-resources/ – The Morris Hospital & Healthcare Centers has a list of Mental Health Resources for counseling and support groups with in-person, teleconference or text options.

Let us help you navigate life’s transitions—one moment at a time.

Care and Comfort Kit materials are available thanks to the generous support of the Sanford and Abel Trusts through the Community Foundation of Grundy County

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Topics include:

Included in the kit:

Resources for Experiencing a Divorce

Included in the kit:

Resources for Going to a New School

Included in the kit:

Resources for the Incarceration of a Loved One

Included in the kit:

Resources for Living as a Blended Family

Included in the kit:

Resources for the Loss of a Loved One

Included in the kit:

Resources for Loss of a Pet

Included in the kit:

Resources for Moving to a New Place

Included in the kit:

Resources for Visiting the Hospital

Included in the kit:

Resources for Welcoming an Adopted Family Member

Included in the kit:

Resources for Welcoming a Newborn Sibling

Included in the kit:

Resources for Welcoming a Pet

Borrowing Information

Additional Resources

Let us help you navigate life’s transitions—one moment at a time.

Care and Comfort Kit materials are available thanks to the generous support of the Sanford and Abel Trusts through the Community Foundation of Grundy County