A Support Program for Grieving Children and Adolescents
The Stepping Stones program -- a part of BJC Hospice -- is a support program for children (pre-school through teen) whose siblings, parents or grandparents are experiencing a life-limiting illness. The focus of the program is to assist children and their family members in dealing with grief and loss.
A bereavement specialist assists children in working through their grief by participating in meaningful, age-specific, memory and feelings activities before and after the death of their loved one. Parents and grandparents are assisted in determining how to best inform their children about the illness. Guidance is provided in funeral preparation for children. materials are provided to meet each family’s specific needs.
Stepping Stones Camp
BJC hospice present its annual weekend camp, Stepping Stones, at Camp Wyman in Eureka, Missouri. The camp is for children who have lost a family member to illness or accident. Stepping Stones Camp will be provided to sixty children from ages 6-12 who are grieving the loss of a sibling, parent, or grandparent.
At Stepping Stones Camp, children will have the opportunity to meet other children who have had similar experiences. Stepping Stones offers fun activities and a chance to make new friends. Group sessions will focus on bereavement issues and the grieving process will be provided. Activities include: swimming, sports and nature activities, arts and crafts, and special activities designed to provide peer support while dealing with feelings of loss. Counselors include professional staff and trained volunteers.
The Stepping Stones camp is sponsored by BJC Pediatric Hospice's Wings Program and is offered at no cost to participating families.
For more information, visit BJC Hospice.
