Free camp to help children coping with loss to be held in Visalia
VISALIA, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Kaweah Health Hospice will host a free camp to help children dealing with grief to learn how to cope and heal in Visalia.
According to organizers, the Good Grief Camp will be held on Oct. 12. The free event aims to help children learn coping skills and find healing through games, crafts, and other age-appropriate activities.
Organizers say a T-shirt for children and lunch will be provided. A Spanish interpreter will be on-site and there will be a special craft project in which children should bring a 4-inch by 6-inch picture of their loved one.
The camp is geared for children ages 5 to 12, but organizers say they have previously benefited attendees as young as 4 years old and as old as 16. Each child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
“For those in the midst of grief, sadness is often the primary emotion, and very few, especially children, know how to process deep sadness,” said James Susee, Kaweah Health’s Bereavement Coordinator. “While the camp doesn’t take away grief, it helps create a safe and fun place for a child to experience joy and peace in the midst of sadness.”
The camp will be led by professionals trained in child development, mental health, and education. Officials say the camp aims to offer a nurturing environment for children to explore their feelings and learn they are not alone in their grief.
The camp will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Visalia Nazarene Church at 3333 W. Caldwell Ave., in Visalia. To register call 559-733-0642.
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