Coping Kids Family Support

"At Coping Kids, I learned that there are other people who know what I'm going through, and I'm not alone. Now I feel like I can live again!" -Kiernan, age 13

What is Coping Kids Family Support?
Coping Kids Family Support offers peer support groups throughout the school year for children and teens (ages 4–18) and adults who are grieving a significant loss. A light supper is provided before the group begins. At the end of dinner, everyone breaks into age-specific groups. Children and teens participate in creative activities that encourage open discussion about feelings and provide valuable education about grief and loss. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay for the adult group to learn more about how to support their grieving children and teens.

How do we sign up for groups?
Parents and guardians should contact the PATHways Center to set up a Coping Kids assessment.

What happens during a Coping Kids assessment?
A counselor who works directly with the groups meets with you and your child and/or teen to get to know them a little better and find out more about how they are coping with the death. The counselor will explain the group format and answer any questions. If the group does not seem to be a fit for your family, the counselor will provide resources for support in the community.

Is there a cost?
Due to the generous support from our community, there is no charge for your family to participate in our Coping Kids group.

Can anyone in the community attend your group?
Our groups are open to anyone in the community, not just those whose loved one has received hospice care.

How long can we attend the Coping Kids groups?
The duration and intensity of your grief journey is unique to you and your family. Families are asked to commit to attending an eight-week series. Some families may choose to attend additional series.

What if we have to miss a group?
Regular attendance is important to both your child/teen and the other group members. We ask that you contact us as soon as you know you have to miss a group. If you need to miss more than one group, we will talk to you about the circumstances and see if the group is still a good fit at this time.

How do we get started?
Contact the PATHways Center at (717) 391-2413 to speak to one of our Coping Kids counselors.