Paradise Kids

Paradise Kids is a locally based and founded organisation established in 1996 on the Gold Coast to provide grief and support services to children, teenagers and families.

The founders Rev Dr Ian Mavor and Deirdre Hanna wanted to create a place where children could come to 'help heal their heartache' when faced with a traumatic situation in their little lives.

All children grieve differently. They may express anger, fear, guilt, repetitive behaviour and sorrow. Paradise Kids knows behavioural problems can result in underperformance at school and disruptions in relationships. Paradise Kids helps by supporting the grief and healing process of both children and parents, and by teaching parents how to support their children who are grieving.

The emphasis is on 'heart work' which means Paradise Kids takes a holistic approach to address all aspects of the child – body, mind and spirit. Paradise Kids believes that this offers valuable life skills for now and for the future and allows our children to move forward in life and face the future with hope.

In 2008 Paradise Kids expanded its services into Brisbane with a centre located in Greenslopes.

Family Holiday House

The Paradise Kids Holiday House Program was established in April 2009 to offer children with a terminal illness or a life limiting illness and their families from rural and remote areas of Australia (including areas outside the Gold Coast CBD) a holiday with a difference.

During their stay families will have access to our Grief Services including counselling, the illness support and grief and loss programs. These services aim to provide the family with new skills and an open communication surrounding their child's illness as well as having a much deserved holiday and quality family time.

The Holiday House has two 3 bedroom units (one with wheelchair access) with a large communal family and kitchen area with a lovely beach theme throughout which reflects the Gold Coast life style.