Experiencing grief for the first time as a child can feel overwhelming, isolating, and even frightening. One of the most powerful ways to support grieving children is to show them they are not alone—that they can learn to live with loss while still finding joy.
That’s why Hospice Austin created Camp Brave Heart, a free bereavement camp designed for children who have lost a loved one. The camp offers a fun, supportive environment where kids can connect with others who understand their pain. By blending traditional summer camp activities with meaningful healing experiences, Camp Brave Heart helps children navigate their grief in a way that feels natural and comforting.
Kyleigh with her mom, Holly Young
Kyleigh Halliwell attended Camp Brave Heart when she was just 11 years old, after the death of her mother. Leaving home for camp was daunting at first.
“I was very attached to my dad after my mom died. He was all I had left,” Kyleigh recalls. “Going back to school was already a huge adjustment, and the thought of being away from him, even for a few days, was scary.”
The hardest part, she says, was saying goodbye to her father and stepping onto the camp bus. But everything changed when she met another camper who had also lost a loved one.
“That first night was rough, but I made a friend, and we shared our stories. That was the moment camp started to feel fun. I realized I wasn’t alone.”
Camp Brave Heart isn’t just about grief, it’s about healing at your own pace. “It’s not grief 24/7,” Kyleigh explains. “You experience it in your own way, when you’re ready. But you also get to make great memories, have fun, and leave with special keepsakes to remember the person you lost.”
For parents considering Camp Brave Heart for their child, Kyleigh has this advice:
“It’s hard to let your child go, especially when you know they’re struggling with so many emotions. But it’s only for a few days, and it gives them the space to process their grief in their own way. They’ll come back with incredible memories, new friendships, and meaningful ways to honor their loved one.”
Camp Brave Heart is more than a camp, it’s a place where children find connection, comfort, and hope.
Learn More About Camp Brave Heart
Ways that Camp Brave Heart Can Help with Childhood Grief and Loss
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Connection with Peers – Kids meet others their age who have also experienced loss, helping them feel less alone.
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Expressive Activities – Art, music, and writing activities provide creative ways to process emotions.
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Grief Support in a Safe Space – Campers can share their feelings in guided group discussions with trained counselors.
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Healing Rituals – Special activities, like memory projects and remembrance ceremonies, help honor lost loved ones.
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Fun and Adventure – Traditional camp activities like swimming, hiking, and games remind kids that joy can exist alongside grief.
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Building Coping Skills – Campers learn healthy ways to express and manage their grief.
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Encouraging Independence – Time away from home fosters resilience and confidence in navigating emotions.
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Lifelong Friendships – Many children form lasting bonds with peers who truly understand their journey.