Illness and death are a part of life, and so is the grief process that allows us to move toward hope and healing. For a child who has experienced the death of a loved one, grief can be forgotten or misunderstood. Commonly called "silent grievers," children and teens cope with the loss of a loved one in unique ways. Bright Star is a specialized children's bereavement program that encourages the processing of grief experiences in a creative, playful and supportive peer group setting.

What We Offer

We offer peer support groups for children and teens from ages 5-18 and their families. Children are grouped together by their age and grade categories:

• Kindergarten-2nd grade
• 3rd-5th grade
• Middle School (6th-8th grade)
• High School

Groups are typically offered twice a month for 90-minute sessions. During group sessions, children are provided opportunities to discuss their grief and engage in age-appropriate play and art activities. Caregivers are encouraged to attend their own caregiver group that meets concurrently with the children's groups. If not attending a group session, we require that the caregiver stay on the property while their child is participating.

We do not provide any private therapy or counseling, but are happy to connect you with a local resource, if needed. If you feel you and your child may benefit from our program, please give us a call at 321.434.7622.

Camp Bright Star

Camp Bright Star is a bereavement day camp sponsored by Hospice of Health First for youth and their families who have experienced the death of a significant person in their lives. Children ages 5 to 12 participate in a camp experience that facilitates emotional support and grief education with fun, interactive camp activities. Activities are led by Hospice of Health First and Bright Star bereavement specialists, registered nurses and volunteers. This camp is typically hosted twice per year, Spring and Fall, on a Saturday.

How will my child benefit?

• They will have opportunities to process grief in healthy ways
• Make friends who have similar experiences
• Honor and remember loved ones
• Have fun!

Registration:

• Registration is required for all campers. We do not allow same day registrations.
• New families who have not previously attended a Bright Star group or event are required to attend an intake appointment prior to camp.
• Cost: $5 per child: $10 for more than one child in the same family.
• Scholarships are available and space is limited.
• Register online through the Hospice of Health First Eventbrite link or call 321-434-7622.

*Lunch will be provided the day of camp. We ask that your child have a good breakfast before coming to camp. Also, please ensure your child is in comfortable clothes and sneakers.

Events

For more information and to register for Camp Bright Star or any of our upcoming events, please click here

Resources

Whether you're grieving, or you're helping someone who is grieving, we have resources available for you. Find tips, activities and more by visiting:

• National Alliance for Grieving Children | https://childrengrieve.org/
• The Dougy Center | https://www.dougy.org/