wonders and worries

In the heart of Austin, Texas, lies a beacon of hope and support for families navigating the complexities of life-altering challenges. Wonders & Worries, a non-profit organization, has been steadfastly dedicated to providing free, professional support to children and teenagers during a parent’s serious illness or injury.  Their commitment to empowering families through difficult times has made them a cornerstone of support within the community.  At the core of Wonders & Worries mission is the belief that children should not face serious parental illness or injuries alone. To achieve this, they offer a range of resources tailored to meet the diverse needs of families:

Local Texas Services (Greater Austin, Houston and San Antonio
Areas):

 

Therapeutic Support: Wonders & Worries provides professional support to children and teenagers coping with a parent’s illness or loss. Through individual and group sessions, certified child life specialists help children understand their parent’s illness or injury, treatments, and side effects, express their emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and navigate their journey with resilience.

Educational Workshops: Understanding that knowledge is power, Wonders & Worries conducts educational workshops for families, schools, and healthcare professionals. These workshops cover topics such as communicating with children about illness, grief, and coping strategies, equipping participants with the tools they need to support children effectively.



Resource Library: Wonders & Worries maintains a comprehensive resource library stocked with recommended reads, articles, and other materials addressing various aspects of illness, grief, and coping. Families can access these resources to gain insight, find comfort, and better understand their unique circumstances.

Monthly Check-In Groups: In addition to individual and group illness education sessions, Wonders & Worries facilitates support groups where children and parents can check in with child life specialists. These groups provide a safe space for sharing experiences, connecting with others facing similar challenges, and finding solace in community support.

Resources for Professionals: Recognizing the importance of a collaborative approach, Wonders & Worries offers resources to healthcare providers, educators, and other professionals working with families impacted by illness, injury, or loss. By sharing their expertise and insights, Wonders & Worries helps these professionals better support families in their care.

Community Outreach: Wonders & Worries actively engages with the community through outreach programs, awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations. By raising awareness and fostering dialogue, they strive to reduce the stigma surrounding illness and grief while expanding access to their services.

 

Nationwide services:

 

Helpline: When you don’t have the words or the time, Wonders & Worries is here. The helpline is free and fast – no scheduling or commuting. Call 1-844-WE-WONDER or email at [email protected] for help.

WonderCast Podcast: WonderCast™ is a podcast that provides support for parents navigating serious illness or injury. Julie May, a seasoned child life specialist, hosts WonderCast™ and introduces assorted topics through candid discussions with guests experiencing different types of medical situations or professionals sharing insights. New episodes are available bi-monthly through a multitude of podcast platforms.

WonderChat: WonderChat for Parents regularly provides webinars that focus on strategies to support parenting throughout a serious illness or injury. Topics focus on challenges that families face and build on ideas to maximize family coping and connection. Each webinar is facilitated by Kim Fryar, Wonders & Worries’ National Program Director, along with other experienced child life professionals.

W&W2Go: W&W2Go™ is an app for parents that provides information and strategies that maximize family communication and coping during a parent’s illness. Many topics are explored through six main categories: Child Development and Parenting, Family Activities, Illness Communication Strategies, Support for Children, Bereavement Support, and Family Resources. The app is available on both Apple and Android platforms.

As families face the daunting challenges brought about by illness or loss, Wonders & Worries stands as a beacon of support, offering a lifeline of resources, guidance, and compassion. Through their unwavering dedication, they empower families to navigate their journey with resilience, hope, and dignity. In the tapestry of Austin’s non-profit landscape, Wonders &Worries shines brightly as a testament to the power of community and the boundless capacity for healing.

Head for the Cure is proud to partner with Wonders & Worries in our Texas markets. We encourage everyone to attend our upcoming events to meet the Wonders & Worries team in person and learn more about the invaluable support they provide to families facing serious illness. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Visit the Wonders & Worries website to view the multitude of resources such as articles, videos, podcasts, and much more.

Address: 9101 Burnet Rd, Ste 205, Austin, TX, United States, Texas
Phone: (512) 329-5757
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: wondersnworries