Middlers and Teens Grief Support Groups

What are the ages the teens in these groups?  The Middlers Group is for adolescents in grades 6-8.  The Teen Group is for teens in grades 9-12.

When do groups meet?  Middlers Group meets from 6:30-8:00 in the evening the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month.
Teens Group meets from 6:30 -8:30 in the evening the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month.

What do they do in group?  Groups follow a regular structure each evening.  We start with introduction and then review the group rules.  Next is a fun activity to get the group energized, or sometimes the kids have a lot to share with each other about things that have been going on at school or in their lives.  The focus of the evening is an activity or discussion topic designed to help the teens talk about some aspect of the grieving process.  Through these discussions they find out they are not alone in their feelings.

How soon after the death do teens come to group?  Grieving teens may come to grief support groups at any time.  Some come immediately after the death of a loved on occurs.  Others come to group several months later.  Lost & Found encourages participation in grief support groups whenever the teen feels ready.

How long do teens stay in group?  Teens stay in group as long as they feel they are getting a benefit from participation in the group.  Each participant decides when he or she is ready to close and stop coming to group.  Typically, teens attend group for a year.  They become friends with others in the group and like the opportunity to meet with other teens who have an understanding of what it is like to be a grieving teen.