Grief Explorers

a group program for children aged 7 to 11.

TERM DATES 2024 Term 1: 13 February – 19 March*| Term 2: 7 May – 4 June | Term 3: 30 July – 27 August (GROUP FULL) | Term 4: 22 October – 19 November (GROUP FULL)

When little people are dealing with big feelings, from big life changes … we are here. Our Grief Explorer’s Program provides face-to-face support, education and community for children aged 7 to 11 dealing with grief and loss. Currently, we offer a five session small group program held onsite over five weeks with intakes each school term. The Grief Explorers program teaches children that life involves change. When life is not as it was before, it can seem like part of us is now missing. Participants gain an understanding of what grief might look like and that while each grief experience is unique to the individual, it also happens in the life of others. With peer sharing and support, their grief is normalised and they no longer feel alone.

After a child experiences a big life change teamed with loss, it can be quite daunting now having to go to a new unknown place. This is one reason why our Grief Explorer’s Program includes Rainbow House Buddies. Each child is individually assisted as they tell their story and deal with any “unfinished business” around the loss or change. A supportive space is provided for them to safely express the full range of their feelings, including anger. Feelings are not judged to be good or bad. To assist healing, the loss is commemorated and new life skills are established. We believe this helps children to move forward in life with restored confidence. Having the ability to make healthy life choices, invest in new relationships without fear and be resilient in times of further change.

The program and resources are based on psychoeducation, it differs from therapy as we do not keep any transcripts or records of participants work for analysis. Our focus is on educating the individual … helping them gain greater understanding and the development of life skills so they achieve better mental and emotional well-being.

Parents and Caregivers with a child attending our Grief Explorer’s Program are encouraged to take part in our concurrent Parent’s Program. This peer-based, group support aims to help parents and caregivers address their grief while educating them on how to provide support for their child through the family’s grief journey.

Registration Process

Please be aware that due to working within a small group setting, availability is limited. Once you are offered a placement we ask that you commit for the full duration of the program. If you think you will not be able to complete the program, please advise us so we can help another family. If all places are filled, you will have to go on our waitlist for our next available program intake.

The Grief Explorers Program is delivered at no cost to you. If you wish to make a donation in support of our ongoing work, please use the ‘Pay what you want’ option upon booking. If you would like more information, email us at team@paradisekids.au

We also have a Teen Support Group – click here for details.

October 2024 Intake

Grief Explorers Program
5 Tuesday Afternoons
22 October – 19 November
3:45pm to 5:15pm

Program Location
The Club at Parkwood Village
76-122 Napper Rd, Parkwood
See the location on Maps
Cost: free or donation accepted

Deirdre Hanna

Deirdre Hanna

FOUNDER & EDUCATOR

Deirdre Hanna has over thirty years experience, working in the areas of chaplaincy, palliative care, grief counselling and education. Caring for both adults and children.

In 2019, Deirdre was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award attributed to her pioneering work for palliative care within Australia.

Deirdre trains our volunteers, hosts our Information Sessions and facilitates our onsite group programs.

Robyn More Group Leader

Robyn More

GRIEF EXPLORERS ADMINISTRATOR

Robyn More has over 15 years experience facilitating children’s grief & loss groups with Paradise Kids and The Rainbow House.

Robyn is a loving wife, mother and grandmother who has an inspiring passion for helping children reach their full potential.

Through Robyn’s educational and mentoring initiatives she has helped thousands of children heal, recover, grow and succeed.

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