Whole Children and Milestones hosts writers group for parents and caregivers

Parenting and giving care to someone with a disability isn’t easy, and taking time for oneself to be creative, relax, and socialize with others doesn’t always come often.

Whole Children™ and Milestones aims to change that and is offering parents and caregivers an opportunity through its writers group. The group will meet for six weeks every Wednesday, 10- 11:30 a.m., starting April 30 at 11 Village Hill, Northampton.

You don’t have to consider yourself a writer to join. The group’s goal is simple: spark creativity, reflect, and share some laughs with other parents and caregivers in a welcoming and no-pressure environment.

Emily Bloch, a Western Massachusetts therapist and writer, led the first group earlier this year.

One caregiver said, “I liked that we came from different experiences and yet had common struggles and joys that were always met with understanding and compassion… I also enjoyed the opportunity to creatively— it was a fun break from emails and IEPS.”

Bloch has written about many different settings, including non-profits, hospice care, parent resource centers, community mental health agencies, and family medical practices.

“Emily was a kind, patient facilitator.  She was great at judging what the group needed when they needed it, supported us with writing, feelings, laughing, and support,” said another caregiver.

The writers group costs $50 for the six-week session. If price is a barrier to join, contact Liana Marks ([email protected]) for information on scholarships.