The death of a parent, family member or friend is difficult at any age, but it can be especially traumatic for children. Hospice of Scotland County’s Camp Spinoza, scheduled for June 2-3 at Camp Monroe in Laurel Hill, helps children ages 5 to 13 understand and cope with the emotions involved in grief. Children are encouraged to share their stories of personal loss with each other during the overnight camp, while also taking part in traditional camp activities like swimming, crafts, music and creative dance. Trained counselors lead all activities, and the camp is offered free of charge, thanks to Hospice and the Scotland Memorial Foundation, which serves as a co-sponsor. Tanya Williams, bereavement coordinator with Hospice of Scotland County, says Camp Spinoza opens the door for children to talk about grief in a safe, supportive environment. “The goal of the entire weekend is to help children understand that they have a support system,” says Williams. “Camp Spinoza offers children a chance to get out in a relaxing environment where they can sort through their emotions and be with others who are experiencing the same thing.” Camp Spinoza will begin at 11 a.m., Saturday, June 2 at Camp Monroe with an orientation session, and concludes with a closing session at 10:30 a.m., Sunday, June 3. The camp is open to any child between 5 and 13 years of age who has experienced the death of a loved on in the past year. For registration information, contact Tanya Williams at Hospice of Scotland County at (910) 276-7176, or visit www.scotlandhospice.org.