Chesapeake Life Center has revamped its grief support programs for children and teens to better suit the schedules of families.
Newly Bereaved Children and Teens
Stepping Stones 6-Week Grief Support Group
This is for ages 6 to 18, but focuses on newly bereaved children and teens whose loss occurred within the last 12 months. Groups will be divided by age and grade level based on enrollment. The group will focus on normalizing grief reactions, teaching coping skills and providing opportunities to remember the loved ones that have died. A social space for parents and guardians will be available each week. A six-week commitment is required. Families have the option to attend on the Pasadena campus or our Charles County campus.
Where: 2505 Davis Road, Waldorf
When: Both groups will meet from 6 to 7:30 p.m, Wednesdays beginning March 15 to April 26. The groups will not meet April 5.
Using Art as an Outlet for Grief
Workshop for children ages 6 to 18 will allow an opportunity for grieving children and teens to come together to socialize and feel supported in their grief. Groups will be divided by age and grade level based on enrollment. Understanding that grief has no timeline, this quarterly program is open to everyone, no matter when your loss took place. No artistic ability or previous experience is required. The workshop will take place on the John & Cathy Belcher Campus.
Where: 90 Ritchie Highway, Pasadena
When: February 4, 11am – 1pm with Artsy Partsy.
Costs: $25 and includes lunch and materials
Creative Programs for Adults Overcoming Grief
Labyrinth Workshop
Join other grievers for an indoors winter labyrinth walk where you will be invited to reflect on the season of winter and the meaning of the winding path for your personal healing. For those grieving the loss of a special person, the labyrinth can be a metaphor for grief’s journey but also a place where the griever can find quietude and calm.
Where: Brookfield United Methodist Church, 12806 Croom Road, Upper Marlboro
When: Thursday, January 19, 6 to 8 p.m.
Costs: $10
Pet Loss Workshop
This is a free program for adults mourning the loss of a beloved pet. It will include a welcome, a time to share individual stories, an introduction to the grief process, an art activity to honor your beloved pet, brainstorming and suggestions for healthy coping. Sponsored by Perfect Pet Resort.
Where: Perfect Pet Resort, 840 W. Bay Front Road, Lothian
When: Saturday, January 23, 10 a.m. to noon
Costs: FREE, but registration is required and can be completed at eventbrite.com.
Walking Through Grief
Join other grievers for a free midwinter slow walk through one of the lovely parks in Prince George’s County. This walk will focus on developing awareness of one’s natural surroundings and how this can help in coping with loss. This walk is for all fitness levels on an easy trail. The walk will not take place in inclement weather or temperatures below freezing.
Where: Lake Artemesia Park, 8200 55th Ave., College Park
When: Monday, February 13, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Costs: FREE
Golden Healing Retreat
For many, grief leaves us feeling shattered and broken. Through grief work and healing after a significant loss, grievers can begin to rebuild and redefine ourselves. During this nurturing yoga and expressive arts retreat, participants will engage in yin yoga followed by the cathartic process of smashing ceramics and using the broken pieces to create something new in the form of a mosaic project.
Where: 90 Ritchie Highway in Pasadena and Yoga Barn, 44 W. Earleigh Heights Road, Severna Park
When: April 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Costs: $50
More Information on the Programs
Registration is required and can be completed by calling 888-501-7077 or emailing griefinfo@chesapeakelifecenter.org. Visit www.hospicechesapeake.org/events for a complete listing of in-person and virtual groups and workshops for adults and children.