INDIANAPOLIS,
Indiana – Consider the caterpillar: It builds a cocoon and remains safely
ensconced until it transforms and emerges into a new life, one that takes
flight.
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 Franciscan VNS St. Francis Hospice offers Caterpillar Kids, a
support program that offers learning experiences for children ages 5 to 12.
Additionally,
Teen Grief Support Group is offered to those from 13 to 18 years of age.
The
dates for both programs from Sept. 14, Sept. 21, Sept. 28 and Oct. 5. The
workshops, which are free, are 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.
“Children
do grieve and they may express it differently than adults, but their feelings
are as genuine and essential in healing,” said Karla Riggs Norton, spiritual
bereavement coordinator. “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.”
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
Karla Riggs Norton at 317-528-2636, or Jeff Hauersperger at 317 528-2099.
