Death is a part of the life cycle, and it’s especially difficult
for children to grasp and make sense out of it, particularly when they lose a
loved one. And that’s why Hospice at Franciscan
St. Francis Health offers Caterpillar Kids, a support program that offers learning
experiences for children ages 5 to 12.
The six-week Fall Caterpillar Kids program begins Sept. 19 and
runs through Oct. 24. The workshops, which are free, are from 4:30 p.m. to 6
p.m., meeting each Wednesday.
Meetings are at Christ United Methodist
Church , 8540 U.S. 31 South, one mile north of
Greenwood Park Mall.
Led by
staff trained in bereavement support for children, youngsters participate in
storytelling, art projects, games and other sharing opportunities. Parents also
are invited to participate in a concurrent session to assist them in supporting
their children.
“Children do grieve and they may express it differently than
adults, but their feelings are as genuine and essential in healing,” said
bereavement coordinator Karla Norton. “Caterpillar Kids brings children
together in a safe, nurturing environment where they receive information about
grief and learn healthy ways to cope with the death of a loved one.”
Registration is required. To register or for more information
about Caterpillar Kids, call 317-865-2092 or toll-free at 800-390-9915.