Coping With Grief

Prince George’s County Hosts First Grief Day Camp

Today’s children have so many issues that once were considered adult challenges. Coping with death and grief are among those challenges that children confront more regulary today.

Prince George’s County will host its first grief day camp Aug. 17, for children (ages 6 - 12) at the College Park Airport Administrative Building next to the museum.  The day camp is being presented by the Chesapeake Life Center, a nonprofit that has offered grief camps for nearly 30 years at locations in Anne Arundel County and decided to reorganize the program to offer the same kind of impactful experience, but at locations that are more accessible to all families. This year marks the first time the organization will hold a camp experience in Prince George’s County.   The interactive workshop experience, which runs from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., offers a safe space for children to explore their grief, make friends and have fun. Through art, play, conversations and support, children will learn new ways to cope with the difficult task of grieving while learning they are not alone. The event will also include an activity in the museum.

Susan Coale, Director of the Chesapeake Life Center, said they are excited about expanding the grief camp program into Prince George’s. “We have the potential to help many more families who ordinarily wouldn’t consider an overnight camp for their kids,” she said. “The fact that it will take place in such a fun and unique location makes this new camp an opportunity for campers to look at grief differently, and pair the hard work of grieving with play.”

The cost to participate is $40 and includes snacks, lunch and all activities. There are scholarships available for those in need. Space is limited. Registration is required and can be completed by calling 888-501-7077 or emailing griefinfo@cheseapeakelifecenter.org.