Camp Brave Hearts :: A Camp for Grieving Children
“Grief calls for a brave heart.”
You never think you’ll need grief resources for your child. Every mom’s goal is to make her children’s lives as carefree and joyous as possible. But when the unthinkable happens, it’s helpful to know local resources that can assist children.
This is the camp no one wants to need, but they’re glad that it’s there. Last summer, my daughter attended Camp Brave Hearts, which is a camp designed to support grieving children. Although a camp about grief sounds depressing, they made sure the children had fun while also learning to cope with the death of their loved one. Hosted by Hospice of Acadiana, this two day camp is for children ages 6-12 who are grieving the death of a loved one. The camp is free and is located in Lafayette, Louisiana. My daughter attended last summer and loved it.
Children process their grief best through play.
This camp provided several opportunities to express their grief in a healthy way, while also learning helpful coping skills. Staff and volunteers from the Healing House, as well as local volunteers, ensured the children had a safe and fun experience. It’s hard feeling like you’re alone in your grief. One of the best parts about camp was meeting other children who had lost a parent. Having your feelings normalized is one of the benefits of a group like this.
The children had the opportunity to bring a picture of their loved one and put it on a giant mural, along with a note to their loved one. For privacy, I won’t post pictures, but it was beautiful to see everyone’s loved one honored this way. It also helped each child realize he/she is not alone. Each child made a memory box and had a chance to decorate it however they wanted.
Emotion Regulation Skills
Children explored safe ways to heal a hurting heart and used art to demonstrate the multitude of emotions they experience. They created a journal of their loved one and discussed what they love and miss about their person. Children were assigned to small groups, which ensured ample opportunities for sharing if they wished. They did rock painting and other art activities, which allowed grief expression in a fun and gentle way. A favorite for many children was a visit from some furry emotional support animals.
The children’s families were invited to attend the last session. Community helpers were invited to attend and the children learned from these brave men and women how they too, are brave. The last activity of camp was a butterfly release. Each child got a butterfly and watched it fly away to Heaven.
This year’s camp is July 24th and July 25th. Registration information can be found at Hospice of Acadiana.
