​H.U.G.S. HELPING CHILDREN UNDERSTAND GRIEF SESSIONS 
TRAINING & COACHING WORKSHOPS. BECOME A CERTIFIED H.U.G.S. FACILITATOR

​

H.U.G.S. Program

Youth Bereavement Specialist - H.U.G.S. Helping Youth Understand Grief Sessions - Facilitator Training The award winning author, Christine Dernederlanden C.T.S.S., C.T.R., IAC-MP, developed and authored, H.U.G.S.Helping Understand Grief Session, a bereavement program for youth. H.U.G.S. derived from The Where is Robert? grief kit that aided more than 6,000 families affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks and earned Christine a certificate of appreciation from former U.S. Secretary of Defense, Donald. H Rumsfeld. Helping Children Understand Grief Sessions, was inspired by her work at the grief camps that she co-facilitated with the Friendship Ambassadors, a group which fosters dialogues with the United Nations and Lions International. The program is guided by the H.U.G.S. manual. There are templates for photo copying, as well as step-by-step instructions for art, craft and music expression. The sessions can run consecutively or be used as stand-alone sessions. Included are caregiver pages, journal, tips and common concerns. Christine has a repertoire of clients she has trained, such as the District School Board of Niagara, the Catholic District School Board of Niagara, international Schools Boards, hospices and bereavement organizations. Many school boards are running H.U.G.S. programs at schools in need, as well as at hospices and funeral homes. The H.U.G.S. training is endorsed by the Association of Trauma and Stress Specialist. Upon completion of the program participant receive a certificate of completion as a H.U.G.S. facilitator. 

​Roberts Press
Ph: 905-688-8009
Fax: 905-984-6899 Email: Christine@robertspress.ca
Request Information

---

Where is Robert? A Childrens Grief KIt aided over 6000 children affected by 911 terrorist attacks. Part of the H.U.G.S. program.

Pinwheel of emotions. Excellent way to explain the many emotions of the grieving process.

Sharing our stories in a safe and comfortable enviroment allows for release and realization. We are not alone in our grief.

The memory box is a pivotal part of the H.U.G.S. program. Each part of the box holds a special meaning.

"Christine presents very practical strategies and tools that can be easily implemented with children and their families. Her warm, friendly and natural approach to such sensitive issues make her an easy presenter to listen to."
​
- Leah Ferron, Child Development Counsellor, Near North District School Board

"I have had an opportunity to see Christine speak on two separate occasions regarding issues pertaining to grief, bereavement and trauma and have found her presentation formats to be organized, engaging and practical. Christine exudes a confidence in her speaking, demonstrating a vast amount of energy, enthusiasm and eagerness in helping others recognize their potential within this area."
​
- Nancy Morphet, Certified Child Life Specialist
​

"Christine is a knowledgeable speaker who captivates her audience. Her humor and enthusiasm gets everyone excited. Through art, music and play therapy, Mrs. Dernederlanden points out the positive side of life's situations. She has an unique ability to draw attention to the present and future."
​
- Barbara Maurer MA, LPC, CTS New York ​

---

IN THE PRESS

Niagara Fall Review Full Article Below
​
For Kayla, it was as if a light went off in her head. She realized she was no longer alone.
"I don't have to keep all this stuff inside me any more. I can express my feelings about everything I'm going through and there's other people who have experienced the same thing," she said.
Bryson Allen, a Grade 2 student, is one of the youngest members of HUGS.
The eight-year-old lost his father Jeff to cancer less than three months ago.
"Inside it's like your heart is racing," he said, pointing to his chest.
"But, when you get to talk to someone, you're calm and not nervous. I can tell them anything and it makes me less heartbroken."
Clark Ashey, 11, is a veteran of the HUGS program. The Grade 5 student who lost his father to cancer two years ago was one of the first students to take the course and he now acts as a mentor to other students like Bryson.
"I help the other kids out and let them know I'll be there for them if they need anything," he said.
​
- Niagara Falls Review 

The H.U.G.S. Grief Kit. Includes various books & DVD"s on grief. Comes with grade level explanations. H.U.G.S. Emotions Doll, Empathy Bear, My Memory Bag & a Red Roller Bag for easy transportation. Can be customized.

H.U.G.S. Group at District School Board of Niagara. Garrison Road School. Niagara Falls Review

Two amazing young students who created pinwheels of emotions and memorial rocks for there parents who died. Niagara Falls Review

Young man working on his memorial rock with the help of H.U.G.S. facilitators. Niagara Falls Review.

Exploring our feelings through mask making.

Memory boxes are a great way to explore and cherish our loved ones.

Exploring our emototions through mask making.

---

International Camps: H.U.G.S.