By Joanne Greene
Lisette & Axel’s YoYo
Past-Chair & Current Board Member, URJ Camp Newman

Witnessing the love between grandparents and grandchildren is sacred. Seeing them sharing holy moments – singing songs to welcome Shabbat, sharing evening blessings, and wildly applauding every act in the talent show – reminds us how Jewish continuity works.

When asked about the highlights of the weekend, Richard, a single grandpa who brought his 12- and 15-year-old grandsons, said, “Top of the list: spending time with James and Ben. Next, reconnecting with old friends I didn’t know were coming. Third, the discussion on the ‘Oys and Joys’ of Jewish Grandparenting.” Ben, age 12, thinks he’ll register for camp this summer.

Lisette, age 7, loved making tie dye t-shirts and conquering her fears to climb to the top of the tower. She also shared that losing a tooth at camp was even better than at home because instead of money she got a glow-stick star.
Axel, age 4, barely left the Gaga pit, and only to play with older boys on the field.
Max, age 10, told his Zayde that he thought about it and wants to have a Bar Mitzvah.

Some grandparents flew in from as far away as Montreal and Miami to spend quality Jewish time with their Bay Area based grandchildren. A pair of grandmas were in attendance who share grandchildren, having each been married to the children’s late grandfather at different times over the years.

Highlights this year included the flashlights and shadow puppets found in each room, sharing stories about family kiddish cups and creating a Lego based kiddish cup to take home.

Grand Family Camp – no parents allowed – is a Shabbat filled with magical moments and Jewish memories to be treasured for years. Be sure to save the date for Grand Family Camp 2026: November 13-15!