Frequently Asked Questions
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Storytelling FAQs
Is it better for students to be the recipient of the story or to tell the story?
Both are very important. First the students listen to a teller or several and learn how to appreciate. With practice, the students learn how to become the storytellers themselves.
I'm too shy to be a storyteller.
We start by practicing in partners. With just one other person listening, there’s less pressure to be perfect. Over time, you will find yourself getting more comfortable.
How do you handle a student who is too shy or anxious to be a storyteller?
We use the same techniques with students as with adults. By starting them in partners, with just one other person listening, we take off some of the pressure.
There are some students – special needs students, for instance – for whom this sort of project is highly stressful, even in the partners. We have had success giving these students alternatives – to write out their story by themselves. for instance, or to use another artistic means to communicate it.
Can you explain Appreciations again?
Appreciations – honest praise that responds to the needs of the person being praised
Global appreciations – general praise
(Examples: “You are so funny!” or “You inspire me!” or “What a moving story!”)
Specific appreciations – praise that focuses on an aspect of the story; it can include individual details about the story or it can praise the characters, the imagery or the structure of the story
(Examples: “When you rolled your eyes, I couldn’t stop laughing!” Or “I loved the details about the color and texture of your grandfather’s old hat,” or “your long pauses really gave me the time to see each object in the treasure chest.”)
The Three Kinds of Appreciations
a. Appreciations that praise the story’s effect on the listener/observer
b. Appreciations that praise the story itself
c. Appreciations that praise the storyteller
Ritual FAQs
How specific do we need to be about the pieces?
Try to find something meets the general idea of what we are trying to symbolize. For instance, you could make these substitutions:
- Rosemary – any fragrant herb
- Oranges – any fruit with a bitter peel that you do not eat
- Fruit with pits – we recommend olives, dates, or cherries but any fruit with an inedible pit works.
Can we do this online?
Absolutely. It helps if everyone has a copy of the book but even if they don’t, you can put together a slideshow with the group readings. Ask everyone to find as many of the ritual objects as possible, or have each person find one and be responsible for that section. We recommend that everyone has at least wine or grape juice, sweet tea, and bread.
Does this work in an interfaith setting?
You can do this in an interfaith setting. However, we are in the process of developing a program that is specifically aimed at an interfaith audience. Contact us if you are interested in this alternative.
FAQs for Educators
What can I do if I am not in a position to create a curriculum but the Holocaust education being offered where I am is traumatizing to the students?
Try bringing in storytelling, either as a storyteller yourself or by bringing in guest storytellers.
Talk to the other educators, and put them in touch with us.
Do I not have the credibility to teach this since I am not Jewish?
The Holocaust is a human story, not just a Jewish story. The fact that you are here, looking for resources, gives you credibility. Get in touch with us if you want more help.
Where can I find pictures and stories to use that fit a broader narrative?
Both Yad Vashem and the US Holocaust Memorial Museum are good sources of pictures. Facing History and Ourselves is also a good source of materials.
FAQs for Parents & Families
Are my kids old enough to learn about the Holocaust?
No one ever feels as if their kids are old enough to learn about atrocities like the Holocaust. Our kids will learn about it, however, because it’s part of the culture we live in. They will learn about it much younger than you expect.
We firmly believe you should start talking to your children about it early, but in age-appropriate ways. Look at our “How to talk to your kids about the Holocaust” page for help.
What should I give my kids to read?
Check out our book lists on our families page. Be sure to read any book before you give it to your kids.
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