The Rainbows programme will be returning to Scoil Mhuire in October. This programme involves 14 weekly after-school support meetings for children who have experienced a significant family change.

When something significant happens in a family, the entire family is affected. Even though death, divorce or other loss issues appear to be only grown-up problems, they have a profound effect on children who are touched by such experiences. If a parent dies or a divorce happens or a painful loss occurs, not only do the parents grieve, the children do also. Children may find it extremely difficult to verbalise their feelings of grief because of their age and inexperience.

We have some trained adult volunteers who are willing to help these children put their feelings into words, work through their grief, build a stronger sense of self-esteem, and begin to accept what has taken place in their family.

If your child has experienced the death of a loved family member, friend or sibling, or is struggling through a painful experience, or separation, this will be an opportunity for him/her to share with someone on the outside what is happening on the inside.

If you would like your child to participate in the Rainbows programme, application forms will be available in the Rainbows box in the school lobby. These forms can be returned to Ms Dillon in Room 20 or Ms Gilmartin in Room 5. This programme is free of charge and completely confidential. Further information can be found on www.rainbowsireland.ie