Pediatric Cancer Family Support

Art Therapy uses imagery, colour, and shape as part of this creative therapeutic process. Thoughts and feelings may be expressed that would otherwise be difficult to articulate.

Art Therapy sessions are available to the child  with cancer and their siblings.

Sessions are scheduled on an individual basis. To find out more information please contact Janette at 905-579-4833 or janette@hearthplace.org.

A facilitated peer support group where parents can connect with one another and share in a supportive environment.  Children  participate in activities with Hearth Place staff and volunteers.

The Family Support evening gathers monthly on the 4th Thursday, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  Pre-registration is required.

Register:  Contact Janette at 905-579-4833 or janette@hearthplace.org.

We offer several fun days each year for the entire family. These include racing with the Porsche Club of Canada, Song Writing, Car Rallys, Teddy Bear Picnics and an annual Christmas Party.

A 6 – 8 week support group for children aged 4 to 6 and 7 to 12 who are coping with the death of a loved one with cancer.

Individual child and teen support may be arranged as appropriate.  Children’s bereavement kits are also available upon request.

Register: Contact Janette at 905-579-4833 or janette@hearthplace.org.

A monkey is offered to all elementary children diagnosed with cancer to help bridge the transition from hospital to school.  It includes a teacher kit to help explain cancer in the classroom.

To request a Monkey In My Chair please contact Janette at 905-579-4833 or janette@hearthplace.org.

Music therapy is the skillful use of music and musical elements by an accredited music therapist to promote, maintain, and restore mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

Children are encouraged to express their thoughts and feelings through music, with the help of a Music Therapist. Individual and group sessions are available to the child with cancer and siblings.

For more information, or to schedule a session, please contact Janette at 905-579-4833 or janette@hearthplace.org.

Play based learning is provided through a variety of therapeutic activities including Psychodrama, artwork, narrative work, sand tray, imagery, toys and materials. Play based learning helps children understand and express their emotions surrounding their cancer experience.

Our experienced Child Life Specialist offers individual sessions. To schedule a session please contact Janette at 905-579-4833 or janette@hearthplace.org.

Description:  Hearth Place Puppeteers offer free performances in Durham Region schools and community organizations.  Our four charming life size puppets deliver an important message incorporating the virtues of Courage, Compassion, Respect, Kindness and Helpfulness by discussing the challenges faced by puppets Sophie and Matthew who are both coping with a cancer diagnosis and the side-effects of their treatment. Two different plays are available:

“Good Friends” for Grades JK-3

“The CCR Club” for grades 4-6

Resource material and follow-up worksheets are provided.

Register: To inquire about having the Puppeteer Team visit your school or organization please call or email Sonja at 905-579-4833, sonja@hearthplace.org

A monthly support group for children aged 4 to 7 and 8 to 12 who have a sibling diagnosed with cancer.  Sibling “Fun Days”  also occur about 4 times a year!

Individual child and teen support may be arranged as needed.

Register: Please contact Janette at 905-579-4833 or janette@hearthplace.org.