Child and Adolescent Grief

The death of a parent, sibling, or someone close can be devastating for children and teens. They experience a range of intense emotions including sadness, anger, fear, and guilt. Children often feel isolated and unable to talk about the death with peers who have not had a similar experience. They also may be reluctant to share their grief with surviving family members for fear of upsetting them. Too often, children end up grieving alone.

At OUR HOUSE, children ages 4-17 are placed in groups which are specific to their age and relationship to the person who died. Utilizing time-tested projects and activities, highly trained group leaders support the children as they make their way through their grieving process. Activities are designed specifically to help children hold on to their precious memories, express thoughts and feelings, adapt to the many changes in their lives and memorialize their loved one.

Child and Adolescent Support Groups...

• are age and relationship specific
• are for children who have experienced the death of a parent, family member or friend
• help children and adolescents begin to heal
• offer a warm, safe place to interact with other children and adolescents experiencing similar thoughts, feelings and life changes
• utilize various methods for grief expression (art, play, creative writing, discussion)
• teach coping skills

"The thing I liked most about my group was how comfortable I felt there. I actually looked forward to going to the meetings. I loved all the projects we did. The group helped me feel like I wasnÕt the only one my age feeling like I did after I lost my mom."
-Justin, aged 16

"The group was helpful to my children because they talk more openly about their dad and his death. They donÕt feel they are the only ones who have experienced loss. I saw a huge change for the better in each of the girls in the time you were there for them."
-Elizabeth, Parent of 5 & 8 year old girls.

For more information about our Children and Adolescent Programs, please contact us at 310-473-1511 or 818-222-3344.