The effects of unresolved grief on children can be devastating. From a child’s perspective, the experience of loss is not only overwhelming emotionally, but affects cognitive functioning as well.
Young children may be unable to recognize or categorize their losses, let alone sort them one from another. They may receive unclear explanations or no information at all about why these losses have occurred.
Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice and the Joseph T. Quinlan Bereavement Center will host the Children’s Art Bereavement Program on Thursday evenings, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m., starting on March 5. This themed program is designed for children (age 6-12) who have experienced the loss of a loved one through death. This program will focus on meeting the individualized needs of grieving children through art and play.
This series also helps children understand their own unique feelings in grief, allows them to come together with others who have also experienced the loss of a loved one, and provides an environment where they feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their feelings and fears about death.
For the adults, a simultaneous group will be provided for the parents or guardians. This group will be educational and supportive in nature.
Children who participated in the summer children’s art bereavement program made several crafts as they learned methods to cope with the loss of a loved one.
Registration for this session is limited. Pre-registration is required and there is a $100.00 fee to help cover the cost of materials and supplies. Limited scholarships are available. Please call Diana Sebzda, Director of Bereavement for more information or to register at 973-948-2282 or email [email protected].