The Nature and Structure of Groups
Other Programs
The Steps for Joining The Mourning Star Center
The Nature and Structure of Groups
The Mourning Star Center has developed several categories for the purpose of grouping people, providing for as much commonality as is possible for participants.
Littles: Children ages 3-5 who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling, primary caretaker, or someone close share their feelings through play. These groups meet every other week.
Children ages 6-12 who have experienced the death of a loved one meet to share feelings and support one another. These groups meet every other week.
Children ages 11-14 who have experienced the death of a loved one meet to share feelings and support one another. These groups meet every other week.
Teen Groups: Teenagers ages 13-18 who have lost parents, siblings, primary caregivers, or best friends share their support and experiences. These groups meet every other week.
Parent Groups: While children meet, their parents or caregivers meet to share the questions and concerns they are facing and to exchange loving support from one another.
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Other Programs:
Extended Support Home & School: The Mourning Star Center staff is available to schools to meet with teachers and classmates of children experiencing grief.
Educational Services: Classes and presentations are offered for professionals, paraprofessionals and students interested in working with children and their families experiencing grief.
Community Outreach: Representatives from The Mourning Star Center go into the community to give information about the Centers programs and services.
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The Steps for Joining The Mourning Star Center Are:
1. A parent or guardian calls (760) 836-0360, and a staff member writes down basic information about your family and about the person who died or is dying on our "Telephone Intake Information Form." Your questions about The Mourning Star Center are answered. If advice about grieving children/teens is needed, a program staff person will talk with you.
2. Within a day or two, we will contact you to schedule an orientation appointment for the family. We may ask for more details about your child/teen, the circumstances of the death or terminal illness, and how your family is doing. You can discuss whether or not The Mourning Star Center is the appropriate service for your family.
3. You and your family come to its orientation appointment to tour the Center, be introduced to the staff and program, to discuss the requirements for participation, and to ask questions. You will receive application forms, which will be explained to you at that time.
4. After the orientation, your family will discuss participating. If interested, complete and return the application forms.
5. When we receive the completed application forms, we will call you regarding openings. You and your child/teen will be invited to the appropriate group meeting. If the appropriate group best for your child/teen is full, you can attend the Monthly Support Group while on the waiting list. Some families choose to attend the Monthly Support Group as their regular group.
6. When an opening is available, your family will be notified.
For more information, please Contact Us.
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