Firefly — Ages 6 to 12

Firefly groups give younger children a safe, welcoming place to talk about what has changed in their lives. Through guided discussion, activities and play, children learn to name what they're feeling and discover they are not the only one going through it.

Embers — Ages 13 to 16

Embers groups give teens space to be honest with peers who understand. Discussions are led by trained facilitators and cover the things that are hardest to say out loud — anger, guilt, worry, and figuring out who you are after everything has changed.

Adults

Our adult group offers the same peer support to parents, guardians and other adults navigating loss or major life change. [Contact us] for information about the current session.

How our groups work

Participants are placed in small groups of five to seven, matched by age and by similar type of loss. Each group is guided by two trained adult volunteer facilitators who lead discussion and activities. Siblings are usually placed in separate groups so each child can explore their own experience.

Every session includes guided discussion, coping strategies, and peer support in a confidential group setting. Topics include understanding grief stages, managing difficult emotions, and building resilience for the journey ahead.

Lanterns is a peer support program, not counselling or therapy. There is no cost to participate — we are funded entirely by public donations. While sessions are held at St. Mary's School, Lanterns is a non-sectarian organization open to children, youth and families of any faith or belief.