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Is Turning Point Right for My Family?

February 25, 2019

When facing new life challenges, you want to make sure you're finding resources that are best suited for your entire family – even the youngest members. To help you better determine if we're the right fit for you, we've provided this Q&A geared specifically to our children and teen programs. If you have additional questions, please don't hesitate to ask. We're always here for you.

Why would my child or teen need Turning Point?

When a family is faced with the diagnosis of a physical illness, there are many unknowns. Children and teens often lack life experiences to know how to address the emotional issues that might arise. Turning Point's licensed and experienced facilitators help them develop a language to explain how they think or feel about these issues.

My child isn't asking or talking about my diagnosis, do they really need to attend a Turning Point group?

Just because they aren't asking or talking doesn't mean they don't wonder what's going on. Children often don't know the question to ask. Being in a Turning Point group with other kids can help them put words to the feelings they have going on inside.

Will being in a group scare them or make them worry more?

Attending a Turning Point program allows kids to see their family is not the only family affected by illness. Often, they may be the only one in their school or in the neighborhood affected by an illness. But at Turning Point, they find a sense of community and feel less isolated in their situation. All of our programs are based in theories of resilience and play. So when a child comes to Turning Point, they will be doing what children do best – playing, exploring, having fun and being creative. Play is a child's language. It is familiar, safe and easily accessible.

What will my child do in a Turning Point group?

All of our groups are interactive and creative because we believe in hands-on learning. They might draw, write, make music, do yoga or participate in other expressive arts. They may just hang out with other teens. But all of these activities – even if they come and simply listen – will help build their level of resilience, develop positive coping skills and give voice to their heart.

Is my child too young or too old to participate in the children's programs?

Generally our programs start at age 4, with programs available throughout the teen years. Each program listed in our program calendar has a targeted age group. The entire family can participate in many of our programs.

If you have questions or would like more information about Turning Point programs for children, teens and families, call Annie Seal, 913-574-0913.

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