Program Format

Kid Support is a 12-session, adult-led peer-support program for young people ages six to 13. (If necessary, facilitators can implement a shortened, ten-session version of the program.) Each session meets for 90 minutes. The program is designed to reduce the stress of parental cancer by providing information and support, by teaching coping skills and by promoting family communication about cancer.

The program uses art activities, poems, stories, cartoons and games to help young people share their experiences and learn coping skills.

The Kid Support program also includes a free 90-minute workshop—the Parent Orientation Session—to help parents and other caregivers support their children.

The Parent Orientation Session is conducted by Kid Support facilitators. It provides parents with help in explaining cancer to children; information, guidance, and resources for helping children cope; and an introduction to the content and goals of Kid Support programming.

 

"The Kid Support Program has helped my daughter realize that other kids experience the same feelings she does, and has made it easier to discuss the situation with her. This program is outstanding."

-M.S., Kid Support parent, 2003