Painting, crafts, movies, games and a dance party are just some of the activities lined up for children, ages 5-17, participating in Cornerstone’s Kids, a free program designed to foster fun, friendship and support to area students who may be struggling with the loss of someone special or challenges with everyday life.
Developed by Cornerstone Hospice children’s bereavement counselor Kristen Nardolillo, LCSW, the activities often incorporate music, art, games and more to help kids cope with their emotions in a safe and secure environment.
“We are especially excited to partner with Painting with a Twist in Clermont to offer virtual 
workshops where the kids can follow along while painting holiday-themed canvases of their own,” said Nardolillo, LCSW. “The painting workshops are free but space is limited and students must register at least a week in advance so the supplies can be shipped.”
Cornerstone’s Kids is open to students living in Lake, Sumter, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Highlands and Hardee counties in Florida and Cherokee, Cobb, Fulton and Gwinnett counties in Georgia. Some activities are specifically designed for children in Cornerstone’s children’s bereavement program.
All events are held virtually and, unless noted otherwise, begin at 4:30 p.m. Families must register for this free program.
The Painting with a Twist workshops in November and December will be held:
– Thursday, Nov. 11 – Fall Glimmer (all ages)
– Friday, Dec. 3 – Jolly Reindeer (ages 5 – 11)
– Friday, Dec. 3 – Stealin’ Christmas (ages 12 – 17)
Other Cornerstone’s Kids activities include:
– Thursday, Nov 18 – Nardolillo has planned a surprise activity for Children’s Grief Awareness Day.
– Friday, Nov. 19 – Students will enjoy music and share dance moves during a Dance Party.
– Wednesday, Dec. 8 – Kids will make memorial ornaments in honor of someone special.
– Wednesday, Dec. 22 – Movie night features “The Santa Clause.”
Signup is required to participate in the Cornerstone’s Kids programs. Instructions for logging into the events, which are held via Zoom video conferencing, are provided upon registration.
Information about Cornerstone’s Kids is available at http://cornerstoneskids.org, by emailing CornerstonesKids@cshospice.org or by calling 866-742-6655.
About Cornerstone Hospice
Cornerstone Hospice is a leading community-owned provider of end-of-life care in Central Florida and North Georgia. For over 37 years Cornerstone has set the standard for hospice care as we serve more than 7,000 people each year in Lake, Sumter, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties in Florida and Cherokee, Cobb, Fulton, and Gwinnett counties in Georgia. For more information, to donate, or to volunteer, call 866-742-6655 or visit www.CornerstoneHospice.org.
