Kids Group
During a cancer experience, children may be impacted in a variety of ways. By connecting with other children and families going through a similar situation, children are given the opportunity to normalize feelings and validate their experiences. Kids Group is a support group for children who have a close family member with cancer. Through expressive art and discussion, children are encouraged to ask questions, examine and express their feelings, and learn and practice new coping skills. Please call Devon Artusio at 630-654-5107 or dartusio@wellnesshouse.org to learn more and to register.
Kids Parent Group
It is important that parents are given the opportunity to express their own feelings and anxieties in relation to the cancer and to parenting during this time. The Kids Parent Group is offered simultaneously with the Kids Group, and addresses parent, children, and family issues that are associated with having a family member with cancer. By attending the Kids Parent Group, parents are not only able to confer with other parents in similar situations, but they are also able to learn how children interpret the cancer experience, and this will help them be better able to manage their children’s needs during this time. Please call Devon Artusio at 630-654-5107 or dartusio@wellnesshouse.org to learn more and to register.
Teen Time
Teen Talk is a support group for teenagers who have a family member with cancer. The group provides teens with the opportunity to connect with other teens who are going through similar situations, to discuss the impact cancer has on their family, and to learn about healthy coping strategies to manage stress and changes they are dealing with. Please call Devon Artusio at 630-654-5107 or dartusio@wellnesshouse.org to learn more and to register.
ConnecTeen
Teens ages 11-18 that are going through or just out of treatment are invited to join us for socializing, support, fun, and food! This program provides an opportunity for teens to connect with one another and discuss the impact cancer has on their lives. Simultaneous parent support group offered. Please call Devon Artusio at 630-654-5107 or dartusio@wellnesshouse.org for details on additional SPECIAL social events for ConnecTeen members throughout the year!!!
Family Wellness
Because everyone in a family is impacted by a cancer diagnosis, it is important that families are able to come together and participate in fun and healthy activities. Family Wellness is a monthly class that will engage the entire family in wellness programs such as yoga, healthy cooking, and relaxation. View upcoming Family Wellness events.
Social Events and Kids Kamp
Wellness House offers Social Events for children and teens throughout the year that give them a chance to have fun in the midst of a difficult family experience. View upcoming Social Events and Kamp schedule.
Consultations
When a family member is diagnosed with cancer, parents of children and teens are faced with many challenges. Consultations are one on one appointments that are offered to assist parents with issues such as how to tell children about cancer, how to anticipate and respond to behavior changes, and how to best support children during the cancer experience. Consultations are also available for children and teens as an opportunity to talk openly about the cancer experience in the family. Please call Alison Graft at 630-654-5109 or agraft@wellnesshouse.org to learn more and to make an appointment.