Rollercoasters

Rollercoasters is an eight-week therapeutic support group for children and their parents. The workshop includes games and activities to help participants express all manner of feelings surrounding separation, divorce or blending of new families.  he class is taught by a licensed counselor. Though not required, parent participation is highly encouraged.

Rollercoasters is for children from first grade through middle school students.  Both groups meet once a week for 55 minutes.

Location: 1255 Broadway Street NE, Salem, OR (corner of Broadway and Market St.)

Cost: 
$75 per child – For parents who have completed COPE class.
$90 per child – For parents who did not attend a COPE class.

Payment must be made at the time of registration.

When:  Monday nights.  Classes are held Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer.  Call 503-581-9922, ext. 301, for the upcoming schedule and time.

Topics covered, by week:

1. Everything is different.
2. Is it my fault?
3. I wish everything was back to normal.
4. What hasn’t changed.
5. I am so mad.
6. Nobody knows how I feel.
7. Who can I talk to?
8. What have I learned?

Rollercoasters FAQ

Who can sign up for Rollercoasters?

Rollercoasters is for all children, girls and boys, in the 1st grade through middle school, who have been through their parents’ divorce or separation.

Why do classes start with first graders?

First grade is generally when we think children are developmentally ready for this type of workshop, but it depends on the child. We do allow children who are age five to attend if the parent feels the child will participate and benefit from it.

When is the best time to enroll my child in Rollercoasters?

Any time is good, but children seem to benefit if a small amount of time has passed since the separation. Waiting a while gives the children time to experience some of the changes they will talk about in class. We recommend waiting about 6 months from the time of separation, but it is really up to you to decide when you think the class would be best.

Can my two kids be in the same class if they are in different age groups?

There are some advantages for the kids who have their own separate class. We divide the groups by age because children usually feel more comfortable and relate better when the other children in class are of similar age. Sometimes a child will not be as honest and open when there is a sibling in class listening to what they say. Some siblings will feel like a team instead of each child expressing his or her own feelings and concerns. Many parents like the one-one-one time they get with each child to deal with their specific needs and issues.

Do parents come in the class, too?

Children will have activities and games with the teachers for about a half hour, then parents are invited to attend the last 10-15 minutes of class for discussion.

Where do I call if I have more questions?

Call 503-581-9922, ext. 301 for payment, class availability or more information.