How does it work?

Seasons for Growth is a small group program that combines psychology and education with peer support, within a person centred learning approach. It uses the metaphor of the seasons to explore the cyclic nature of grief, and is underpinned by William Worden’s tasks of grieving.

The Children and Young People’s program contains developmentally appropriate discussions and activities. Seasons for Growth normalises participants’ experiences, and can increase protective factors (including building personal resilience and social skills) while minimising some risk factors (including isolation) that influence mental health and wellbeing. The program also supports the development of communication, decision making and problem solving skills.

How is it delivered?

The program is run over 8 sessions with groups of 4-7 participants and is facilitated by trained adults called “Companions”. Teachers, counsellors, psychologists, social workers, chaplains and health professionals are endorsed by their school or organisation to undertake a two-day training workshop to implement the program and to qualify to become a Companion.

The children and young people participating in the group are provided with a safe space to learn, share and reflect and are supported by richly illustrated participant journals.

Outcomes

Seasons for Growth provides the support and space for children and young people to:

• Learn about how different people respond to change, loss and grief
• Understand that it is normal to experience a range of grief reactions
• Explore new approaches to dealing with change, loss and grief in their lives
• Build communication, decision making and problem solving skills
• Participate in a supportive network of peers and adults
• Integrate their new learning into their relationships with family, friends and others