For the Reporter

Children who have been affected by domestic violence are invited to join a new class aimed to help them break the cycle of abuse.

The Jennifer Beach Foundation is offering Kid’s Club classes at a confidential location in South King County. The club is a 10-week program designed to help children who have been raised in a domestic violent environment. Children who witness domestic violence learn that it is OK to hurt or be hurt by someone that you love, especially if they make you angry. These children tend to be more prone to anger and physical violence in their behavior.

Kid’s Club is a safe place where the children can heal from the exposure to domestic violence. Children are given age-appropriate information about abuse, have opportunities to talk about their experiences and have a chance to express their feelings.

The goal of the program is to decrease a child’s sense of isolation and teach skills that will help them break the cycle of violence that they could perpetuate if not helped. Parents will gain a better understanding of the impact of domestic violence on their children and find ways to talk and listen to their children about their experiences.

Classes are facilitated by a mental health therapist and a domestic violence advocate. Classes will meet once a week from 6 to 8 p.m. starting this spring. Classes are free. Food and transportation assistance will be provided.

To register for the class, please call the foundation at 253-833-5366. The foundation provides education, advocacy and assistance to the community addressing issues of child abuse and domestic violence.