INDIANAPOLIS – Death is a part of the life
cycle, and it’s especially difficult for children to grasp and make sense out
of it.
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 Fall Caterpillar
Kids series Wednesdays on Sept, 17 and Sept. 24, and Oct. 1 and Oct. 8. The
free sessions meet from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Registration is required.
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.
To register or for more information about
Caterpillar Kids, call 317-528-2092, or
toll free at 1-800-390-9915.
