Grief is a normal human reaction to any important loss in our lives. Children who lose a parent through death go through the same grieving stages as their parents, but on their own level. Children have a difficult time putting feelings into words. Because parents are caught up in their own pain, they are sometimes unable to reach out and help their children. If grief is ignored or buried within, it becomes what is called 'unresolved grief' which can have a destructive effect. This is particularly true for children. The resolution of grief is a process that can be achieved with understanding, acceptance and support. It is a journey that leads the child from hurt to healing...so that they may be able to see the bright rainbow after their family's storm.

YES Community Counseling Center in partnership with the Massapequa Funeral Home is pleased to make the nationally acclaimed Rainbows Program available to children in need of this support system. This reputable program is designed to help grieving children cope and assist them in their healing process after experiencing the loss of a loved one through death. The purpose of this program is to provide these children with an opportunity to meet new friends who have shared similar experiences; to have a trained caring adult be present for the children while they sort through and understand their grief and to help the children come to a healthy acceptance of what has happened in their family. Confidentiality amongst group members creates an environment that feels safe for children to explore and share what may be difficult to express elsewhere.

The Rainbows program will be available at YES Community counseling Center located at 30 Broadway, Massapequa. This 11 week program will being in October. If you have any further questions or are interested in registering your child, call Debbie DeMartino at 799-3203.