Services that meet children where they are.
A camp to enable grieving children, ages 5-12, to spend time with peers engaging in art therapy, music therapy, movement, writing, and creating keepsakes as a way to process grief. Available in limited areas, Have questions? See our FAQs below or contact us.
Camp Agenda of Activities
- Lasting Memories: Memory box activity
- How Does Your Garden Grow?: Flowerpot shattering & gluing together
- Harmony Haven: Songwriting
- Unmasking our Emotions: Mask making
- Walk in Nature: Nature walk, importance of movement, outdoors, etc.
Camps are funded by the non-profit Residential Hospice Foundation.
Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
If your question isn’t answered below, reach out to us at (248)621-5151 or email us at griefsupport@residentialhospice.com.
What is the intention of the camp and the activities chosen for the camp?
The intention of our children’s grief camp is to provide a safe space for the campers to open up about their feelings of grief and loss through interactive activities and team building. We want the camper to learn to identify those feelings and be able to communicate them with a trusted adult during their grief journey.
Each activity is either designed to honor the camper’s loved one, to create an open dialogue about death, dying and grief, or has been added to bring some fun to the camper’s experience through team building.
Is there a religious component to the camp?
We do not affiliate with a specific religion and support campers in their own beliefs.
How much does the camp cost?
The camp is free of cost through the generosity of the Residential Hospice Foundation.
Who can join camp?
Children 6-13 years of age who have experienced the death of a loved one can join the camp. The camp is open to everyone outside of our hospice community, as well.
How can I prepare my child for the camp?
Talk about the intentions of the camp a few times beforehand and explain how this is a time to meet and share with other children about grief and loss. Keep the conversation light and fun, creating some excitement for the camper.
What will my child be expected to bring with them?
Memory box pictures, trinkets, and a photo of their loved one to show the group, talk about them and display during camp activities. They should also bring daily lunch and any necessary medications. We also hope they arrive open to sharing and learning. What to bring is subject to change based on the camp’s location. An email discussing specific details will be sent to the parent/guardian by the Camp Lead prior to camp.
What will my camper receive at camp?
A t-shirt, snacks, craft supplies, a blue elephant plushie, water, Otter Pops, and lots of support and attention. These items are subject to change based on the camp’s location. An email discussing specific details will be sent to the parent/guardian by the Camp Lead prior to camp.
Can I stay with my child during the camp?
Our facilitators create a safe space for the camper to express themselves and to open up emotionally. We cultivate a nurturing environment where we believe that the camper responds best with peer-to-peer interaction, so we ask that parents/guardians not be present during camp itself.
What happens if my camper needs special accommodation or needs certain medications?
Residential Hospice strives to provide an accommodating environment and has camp facilitators on board who can support campers with behavioral or medication needs. We take each camper into consideration as an individual.
What should my camper not bring to camp?
Any toys that might be misplaced, items that might not pertain to a grief camp.
What should my camper wear?
Clothes that they can get messy in and comfortable shoes. They will also receive a t-shirt upon arrival.
What does drop-off and pick-up look like?
Drop Off
The parent/guardian must come into the building where the camp will be held and sign the camper in. It is important the camper arrives on time to get the full benefit of the camp and that there are no disruptions to the group once camp starts at 9:00 am sharp.
Pick Up
A parent/guardian must come inside and sign the camper out. The only person who can pick up the camper is the one who has been approved when registering for camp. We offer a grace period of 15 minutes if running late.
How do I find the room where my child’s camp will be?
An email will be sent regarding more information based on the Residential branch and location hosting the camp
What measures are taken to keep campers safe?
Our staff is background-checked. We follow a check-in and check-out process for parent/guardian approval. Campers all wear the same t-shirts to stand out. We ensure campers stay within the eyesight of staff. All camp chosen locations have their own protocols for safety and a first-aid kit on hand. Facilitators are aware of any camper specific needs and are professionals trained in how to respond. All have undergone Residential Hospice safety training through MedBridge.
What training or experiences do the camp counselors have?
Our camps are led by licensed social workers, chaplains, and nurses who have prior experience working with children.
Who do we call in case of an emergency?
The Camp Lead will provide you with their work phone and email contact information.
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