INDIANAPOLIS – 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.
That’s why Franciscan Visiting Nurse Service
at St. Francis Hospice offers Caterpillar Kids, a free support program that
offers learning experiences for children ages 5 to 12 who have experienced the
loss of a loved one.
“Children do grieve and they may express it
differently than adults, but their feelings are as genuine and essential in
healing,” said spiritual bereavement counselor Roberta White. “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.”
The program will offer its spring Caterpillar
Kids series Wednesdays on the following dates: Apr. 9, 16, 23, 30 and May 7, 14. The free sessions meet from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
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.
Registration is required. To register or for
more information about Caterpillar Kids, call 317-528-2099.
