Free workshop will help community members better support grieving children

DOVER-FOXCROFT – Pine Tree Hospice will host a free, day-long professional training on “Grieving Children and How to Support Them” on Thursday, Feb. 5 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Dover-Foxcroft Congregational Church, 824 West Main St. The event will be presented by the Center for Grieving Children and is open to anyone who works with or cares about children.

This training is a rare opportunity for anyone that works with children. The workshop is designed to provide practical tools and greater confidence for teachers, social workers, counselors, therapists, homeschoolers, hospital personnel, case managers and other family-support professionals. Lunch will be provided and participants may choose to attend the morning session, the afternoon session or both.

The morning session (9 a.m. to noon) will review what grief is and how it may be expressed at different developmental age groups. The afternoon session (1–3 p.m.) will focus on hands-on skill practice, including active listening, reflective listening, and guidance on running children’s grief groups. A shared lunch hour from 12-1 p.m. will allow morning and afternoon participants to connect, enjoy lunch together and share personal experiences.

“Unfortunately, there is no way to protect children from loss, what we can do is learn how to recognize and support little ones who are grieving,” said Kristen Wortman, Pine Tree Hospice executive director. “Age-appropriate grief support has significant short and long-term benefits, including improved sense of safety and reduced risk of academic struggles, substance abuse, and mental health challenges.”

A certificate for continuing education will be available to participants. Registration is required by Jan. 29. In the event of inclement weather, a snow date has been scheduled for Feb. 12. To register or for more information, contact Pine Tree Hospice at 207-802-8078 or info@pinetreehospice.org.