INDIANPOLIS – Consider the caterpillar: It builds a cocoon and remains safe 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 St. Francis Hospice offers Caterpillar Kids, a new support program that offers learning experiences for children ages 5 to 12.
“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.”
St. Francis Hospice will offer its Fall Caterpillar Kids program beginning Wednesday, Sept. 21 and ending Wednesday, Oct. 26. The workshops, which are free, are from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., meeting each Wednesday.
Meetings are at
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 317-859-2879 or 317-865-2092.
More information about St. Francis Hospice is at www.stfrancishospitals.org/DesktopDefault.aspx?tabid=280.
