Approximately 1.4 million children and youth from ages 8 to 18 in the U.S. are familiar caregivers of a family member. They support both activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). This includes managing complex assistive devices, feeding, bathing and toileting, among other activities. In Texas, we know that there are more than 2,500 youth and children involved in the ALS experience.
Young children and teens often have a difficult time understanding what is happening to a loved one who has been diagnosed with ALS, and there are very few resources available to help them. We’ve created programs for children and youth to address their unique needs and help them cope with a parent’s, grandparent’s, or other family member’s diagnosis of ALS.
Check out our Young Caregivers in Texas Aren’t Alone blog post to get a glimpse into the lives of young caregiver for someone with ALS and learn more about the heart behind these our support groups. Through workshops, online peer support groups, and children and youth-specific resources, we can help young people navigate the disease and support parents in caring for the emotional well-being of their children.
NEW Virtual Youth & Children Support Groups
Join us for monthly virtual support groups for ages 8 – 13 and for high schoolers, college students and young adults under 30. We want them to know that they are not alone in this journey. See below for upcoming group times.
Peer Support Group for Young Adults
January 21 @ 7:00pm
A support group for high schoolers, college students, and young adults under 30.
Register
Peer Support Group for Ages 8 – 13
January 23 @ 12:00pm
A support group for children ages 8 – 13.
Register
Please contact Tonya if you have any questions or need more information.
fAmiLy talkS Series
For parents and children who love a person with ALS.
Youth and children who love a person with ALS desire to be heard and told the truth. They can understand much more than we give them credit for, and starting from a point of openness and honesty is crucial. Children and parents will leave with an activity handbook to help serve as a companion in starting and continuing these open fAmiLy talkS.