Grief Services & Resources For Children, Teens & Families
Local to Idaho RESOURCES & ORGANIZATIONS
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Because KIDS Grieve
Because Kids Grieve is a support organization for children, teens and their families who grieve the loss of someone they love because of death. They host day camps and after school events that bring grieving children and their mentors together. They also hold an overnight camp in the beautiful Southern Idaho hills. There is no cost to the families that use their services. https://www.facebook.com/becausekidsgrieve/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTiyA23kWUvUMzN0YLYzHBA Instagram: @becausekidsgrieveidah |
Camp Erin® South Idaho
Idaho Camp Erin® is a three-day, overnight bereavement camp for children and teens ages 6 through 17 who have experienced the death of someone significant in their life, such as a parent, sibling, family member or friend. Facilitated by professional staff and trained volunteers from Because Kids Grieve, Camp Erin South Idaho is offered free of charge to all bereaved youth seeking support. Camp Erin combines grief education and emotional support with fun, traditional activities. Campers are provided a safe environment to explore their grief, learn essential coping skills, and make friends with peers who are also grieving. The retreat weekend will help bereaved youth share their grief experiences in creative ways through art projects, time to talk and share, outdoor games and challenge courses, participate in memorial activities and even share a campfire experience! Transportation for campers will be provided by Because Kids Grieve from our designated drop off and pick up sites. Camp Erin is FREE to all campers through generous support from Eluna, donations from local corporations and other area organizations.
Idaho Camp Erin® is a three-day, overnight bereavement camp for children and teens ages 6 through 17 who have experienced the death of someone significant in their life, such as a parent, sibling, family member or friend. Facilitated by professional staff and trained volunteers from Because Kids Grieve, Camp Erin South Idaho is offered free of charge to all bereaved youth seeking support. Camp Erin combines grief education and emotional support with fun, traditional activities. Campers are provided a safe environment to explore their grief, learn essential coping skills, and make friends with peers who are also grieving. The retreat weekend will help bereaved youth share their grief experiences in creative ways through art projects, time to talk and share, outdoor games and challenge courses, participate in memorial activities and even share a campfire experience! Transportation for campers will be provided by Because Kids Grieve from our designated drop off and pick up sites. Camp Erin is FREE to all campers through generous support from Eluna, donations from local corporations and other area organizations.
Camp Kesem at Boise State
208-643-2981
140 S Center Street PO Box 823, Rexburg, ID 83460
Camp Kesem is a nationwide community, driven by passionate college student leaders, that supports children through and beyond their parent's
cancer. Camp Kesem runs over 100 weeks of fun, action-packed and 100% free-of-charge camps from coast-to-coast every summer. Serving children
ages 6 to 18, their campers experience a warm and loving environment with other children who have similar life experiences. This community
provides the foundation for confidence building, improved communication skills, enhanced life outlook and attitude.
https://www.campkesem.org/find-a-camp/camp-kesem-boise-state
https://www.facebook.com/CampKesemBoiseState
tetonvalley@campkesem.org
208-643-2981
140 S Center Street PO Box 823, Rexburg, ID 83460
Camp Kesem is a nationwide community, driven by passionate college student leaders, that supports children through and beyond their parent's
cancer. Camp Kesem runs over 100 weeks of fun, action-packed and 100% free-of-charge camps from coast-to-coast every summer. Serving children
ages 6 to 18, their campers experience a warm and loving environment with other children who have similar life experiences. This community
provides the foundation for confidence building, improved communication skills, enhanced life outlook and attitude.
https://www.campkesem.org/find-a-camp/camp-kesem-boise-state
https://www.facebook.com/CampKesemBoiseState
tetonvalley@campkesem.org
Nampa Family Justice Center
208-475-5702
1305 3rd Street South, Nampa, ID 83686
The Family Justice Center provides services for victims of Domestic Abuse/Violence, Sexual Assault, Child Abuse and Elder Abuse. If you have any questions or need to access any of their services, please contact them to speak with an advocate. Services are offered at no cost to anyone who is experiencing or has experienced domestic abuse, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, stalking and sex trafficking
www.nampafamilyjusticecenter.org
https://www.facebook.com/Nampa-Family-Justice-Center-261486153952/
208-475-5702
1305 3rd Street South, Nampa, ID 83686
The Family Justice Center provides services for victims of Domestic Abuse/Violence, Sexual Assault, Child Abuse and Elder Abuse. If you have any questions or need to access any of their services, please contact them to speak with an advocate. Services are offered at no cost to anyone who is experiencing or has experienced domestic abuse, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, stalking and sex trafficking
www.nampafamilyjusticecenter.org
https://www.facebook.com/Nampa-Family-Justice-Center-261486153952/
Teen Hope of Idaho
208-991-4649
10020 W Fairview Ave., Suite 204, Boise, Idaho 83704
TeenHopeIdaho@gmail.com
Teen Hope of Idaho is a faith-based, non-profit mental health agency that helps parents and their struggling adolescents realize that they
are not alone indifficult times. They specialize in working with parents and teens in crisis using counseling, mentoring, support groups
and medication management when appropriate to move them toward healing and recovery.
https://www.teenhopeidaho.org/
https://www.facebook.com/teenhopeidaho/
Instagram: @teen_hope_idaho
Touchstone a Free Program for Grieving Children & Adolescents
The Touchstone program is operated by Children’s Home Society of Idaho’s Warm Springs Counseling Center. Touchstone was established to support the
special needs of grieving and adolescents, ages 5- 18. The meetings occur once or twice a month in Boise and Meridian from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the
Warm Springs Counseling Center. Meetings begin with a potluck meal provided by Touchstone. Families are encouraged to bring a side dish, if possible.
No costs, no waiting list and you don’t need to be a client of WSCC.
Boise: 740 Warm Springs Avenue, Boise, Idaho 83712
Meridian: 1833 S. Millennium Way, Meridian, Idaho 83642
https://childrenshomesociety.com/counseling-center/touchstone/
https://www.instagram.com/touchstonegrieving/
Instagram: @touchstonegrieving
2019-2020 Meeting Calendar: https://childrenshomesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Touchstone-Calendar-19-20.pdf
Contacts: (208) 343-7797 x1359 email Stacey at sgeist@childrenshomesociety.com or email Katie at katiesuegriffith@gmail.com
Willow Center For Grieving Children
208-791-7192
Administrative Office: 0309 2nd St., Lewiston, Idaho 83501
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1361, Lewiston, Idaho 83501
office@Willow-Center.org
The Willow Center is a non-profit, charitable organization, that provides supports groups and resources for children and teens free of charge.
Willow Center is the only organization between Boise and Spokane that is dedicated to serving the needs of grieving children, teens and their families in a free of charge, on-going open ended, support group format modeled on best practices and the assumption no two children grieve the same.
https://willow-center.org/
Instagram: @willow_center_inc
208-991-4649
10020 W Fairview Ave., Suite 204, Boise, Idaho 83704
TeenHopeIdaho@gmail.com
Teen Hope of Idaho is a faith-based, non-profit mental health agency that helps parents and their struggling adolescents realize that they
are not alone indifficult times. They specialize in working with parents and teens in crisis using counseling, mentoring, support groups
and medication management when appropriate to move them toward healing and recovery.
https://www.teenhopeidaho.org/
https://www.facebook.com/teenhopeidaho/
Instagram: @teen_hope_idaho
Touchstone a Free Program for Grieving Children & Adolescents
The Touchstone program is operated by Children’s Home Society of Idaho’s Warm Springs Counseling Center. Touchstone was established to support the
special needs of grieving and adolescents, ages 5- 18. The meetings occur once or twice a month in Boise and Meridian from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the
Warm Springs Counseling Center. Meetings begin with a potluck meal provided by Touchstone. Families are encouraged to bring a side dish, if possible.
No costs, no waiting list and you don’t need to be a client of WSCC.
Boise: 740 Warm Springs Avenue, Boise, Idaho 83712
Meridian: 1833 S. Millennium Way, Meridian, Idaho 83642
https://childrenshomesociety.com/counseling-center/touchstone/
https://www.instagram.com/touchstonegrieving/
Instagram: @touchstonegrieving
2019-2020 Meeting Calendar: https://childrenshomesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Touchstone-Calendar-19-20.pdf
Contacts: (208) 343-7797 x1359 email Stacey at sgeist@childrenshomesociety.com or email Katie at katiesuegriffith@gmail.com
Willow Center For Grieving Children
208-791-7192
Administrative Office: 0309 2nd St., Lewiston, Idaho 83501
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 1361, Lewiston, Idaho 83501
office@Willow-Center.org
The Willow Center is a non-profit, charitable organization, that provides supports groups and resources for children and teens free of charge.
Willow Center is the only organization between Boise and Spokane that is dedicated to serving the needs of grieving children, teens and their families in a free of charge, on-going open ended, support group format modeled on best practices and the assumption no two children grieve the same.
https://willow-center.org/
Instagram: @willow_center_inc
Online and/or Outside of Idaho Resources & Organizations
Art With Heart
For over twenty years, Art with Heart has been spreading the healing power of creative expression to kids experiencing trauma or adversity.
Their therapeutic activity books for youth and resources for the adults who serve them transform pain into possibility for young people around the world.
Now in their third decade, they will reach 3.5 million more kids through their innovative online learning community and personal, unique partnerships.
Check out their Caregivers Guides for Helping Kids After Death & Talking To Kids When Anticipating Death at: https://artwithheart.org/learn/
https://www.facebook.com/ArtwithHeartSeattle/
https://artwithheart.org/
For over twenty years, Art with Heart has been spreading the healing power of creative expression to kids experiencing trauma or adversity.
Their therapeutic activity books for youth and resources for the adults who serve them transform pain into possibility for young people around the world.
Now in their third decade, they will reach 3.5 million more kids through their innovative online learning community and personal, unique partnerships.
Check out their Caregivers Guides for Helping Kids After Death & Talking To Kids When Anticipating Death at: https://artwithheart.org/learn/
https://www.facebook.com/ArtwithHeartSeattle/
https://artwithheart.org/
Camp Kesem
Camp Kesem is a nationwide community, driven by passionate college student leaders, that supports children through and beyond their parent's
cancer. Camp Kesem runs over 100 weeks of fun, action-packed and 100% free-of-charge camps from coast-to-coast every summer. Serving children
ages 6 to 18, their campers experience a warm and loving environment with other children who have similar life experiences. This community
provides the foundation for confidence building, improved communication skills, enhanced life outlook and attitude.
https://www.campkesem.org/
Camp Kesem is a nationwide community, driven by passionate college student leaders, that supports children through and beyond their parent's
cancer. Camp Kesem runs over 100 weeks of fun, action-packed and 100% free-of-charge camps from coast-to-coast every summer. Serving children
ages 6 to 18, their campers experience a warm and loving environment with other children who have similar life experiences. This community
provides the foundation for confidence building, improved communication skills, enhanced life outlook and attitude.
https://www.campkesem.org/
Calm Waters Center for Children and Families
Calm Waters is a non-profit, non-faith based center located in Oklahoma. Founded in 1992, Calm Waters is dedicated to helping children, 3 to 18,
adults and families in their grief journey after a death, divorce or other significant loss by providing FREE support groups at our center and in schools,
private pay counseling and consultations, parenting seminars and workplace crisis services and workplace trainings.
https://www.calmwaters.org
https://www.facebook.com/CalmWatersOK/
Calm Waters is a non-profit, non-faith based center located in Oklahoma. Founded in 1992, Calm Waters is dedicated to helping children, 3 to 18,
adults and families in their grief journey after a death, divorce or other significant loss by providing FREE support groups at our center and in schools,
private pay counseling and consultations, parenting seminars and workplace crisis services and workplace trainings.
https://www.calmwaters.org
https://www.facebook.com/CalmWatersOK/
Children's Grief Connection
Children's Grief Connection is a nonprofit organization providing grief programs for children and their families in partnership with funeral directors.
Children's Grief Connections helps grieving children and their families heal after the death of a loved one. At our Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp,
every member of the family has the opportunity to participate. Our volunteers are skilled in listening to the needs of grieving people and provide
tools that will assist the family as they continue on their lifelong grief journey after the camp ends.
http://www.childrensgriefconnection.com/
Children's Grief Connection is a nonprofit organization providing grief programs for children and their families in partnership with funeral directors.
Children's Grief Connections helps grieving children and their families heal after the death of a loved one. At our Hearts of Hope Family Grief Camp,
every member of the family has the opportunity to participate. Our volunteers are skilled in listening to the needs of grieving people and provide
tools that will assist the family as they continue on their lifelong grief journey after the camp ends.
http://www.childrensgriefconnection.com/
Coalition to Support Grieving Students
The Coalition to Support Grieving Students purpose is to create and share a set of industry-endorsed resources that will empower school
communities across America in the ongoing support of their grieving students.
https://grievingstudents.org/
The Coalition to Support Grieving Students purpose is to create and share a set of industry-endorsed resources that will empower school
communities across America in the ongoing support of their grieving students.
https://grievingstudents.org/
The Dougy Center - The National Center for Grieving Children & Families
The Dougy Center provides support in a safe place where children, teens, young adults, and their
families grieving a death can share their experiences.
https://www.dougy.org/
https://www.facebook.com/thedougycenter/
Instagram: @thedougycenter
The Dougy Center provides support in a safe place where children, teens, young adults, and their
families grieving a death can share their experiences.
https://www.dougy.org/
https://www.facebook.com/thedougycenter/
Instagram: @thedougycenter
ELuna Network
Eluna created Camp Erin which has grown into the largest free bereavement program for children and teens in the U.S. and Canada.
https://elunanetwork.org/camps-programs/camp-erin/
Eluna created Camp Erin which has grown into the largest free bereavement program for children and teens in the U.S. and Canada.
https://elunanetwork.org/camps-programs/camp-erin/
empowerHER®
empowerHER® is a nonprofit organization with a very specific mission - to empower, support and connect girls and young women who have experienced the
loss of their mothers. They offer events, mentorship and virtual programming for girls and young women up to age 24. They are thriving in New England &
Southern California, with plans to expand across the US, and they recently launched a virtual program, available to girls across the globe.
https://www.empoweringher.org/
https://www.facebook.com/empoweringHER
empowerHER® is a nonprofit organization with a very specific mission - to empower, support and connect girls and young women who have experienced the
loss of their mothers. They offer events, mentorship and virtual programming for girls and young women up to age 24. They are thriving in New England &
Southern California, with plans to expand across the US, and they recently launched a virtual program, available to girls across the globe.
https://www.empoweringher.org/
https://www.facebook.com/empoweringHER
Evermore Grief Support Directory
This directory lists many support organizations and bereavement centers for families.
https://www.live-evermore.org/grief-support-directory/#
This directory lists many support organizations and bereavement centers for families.
https://www.live-evermore.org/grief-support-directory/#
Experience Camps
Experience Camps is a national, no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. Our one-week, overnight summer camp and year-round programs help to reframe the experience of grief and empower kids to develop invaluable coping skills that enable them to move forward with their lives. Through compassion, connection, and play, Experience Camps empowers grieving children to embody a life full of hope and possibility.
https://experiencecamps.org/
https://www.facebook.com/experiencecamps
Experience Camps is a national, no-cost program for grieving children who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. Our one-week, overnight summer camp and year-round programs help to reframe the experience of grief and empower kids to develop invaluable coping skills that enable them to move forward with their lives. Through compassion, connection, and play, Experience Camps empowers grieving children to embody a life full of hope and possibility.
https://experiencecamps.org/
https://www.facebook.com/experiencecamps
GrieveWell Online Resources for Young Adults & Grief
https://grievewell.com/resources/young-adults/
https://grievewell.com/resources/young-adults/
Hamilton's Academy of Grief and Loss
Hamilton's Academy of Grief and Loss has a ton of information for grieving individuals, families, professionals, and the community at large.
They have a large variety of FREE printable resources covering a range of topics related to grief and loss, organized by category.
They have many great resources for helping children & teens with grief.
http://www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com/academy/detail.aspx?p=11
Hamilton's Academy of Grief and Loss has a ton of information for grieving individuals, families, professionals, and the community at large.
They have a large variety of FREE printable resources covering a range of topics related to grief and loss, organized by category.
They have many great resources for helping children & teens with grief.
http://www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com/academy/detail.aspx?p=11
Katy's Courage
Dedicated to supporting education, children's bereavement support & pediatric cancer research.
https://katyscourage.org/
Instgram: @katyscourage
Dedicated to supporting education, children's bereavement support & pediatric cancer research.
https://katyscourage.org/
Instgram: @katyscourage
The Kentucky Center for Grieving Children and Families
The Kentucky Center for Grieving Children and Families, Inc. just launched in the fall of 2021 and provides its community grief services free of charge.
Through donations and community support they provide activities and programs that support Kentucky families as they grieve and heal. KCGCF offers student
grief support groups and family/caregiver education and support for youth and families in the following schools in Fayette County, Kentucky. If you are interested
in having your child join a grief support group, please contact the school’s Family Resource and Youth Services Center or email kychildrengrieve@gmail.com.
The KCGCF also works with grieving families to provide community referrals for additional services and supports, including individual therapy and therapeutic recreation opportunities. The KCGCF offers expert training in youth bereavement (its hallmarks, trauma-informed strategies for supporting grieving children, how
to support grieving families and encourage resilient parenting). Presentations and training can be arranged for schools, churches, social service agencies, workplaces, and community groups. In 2022, they hope to launch free, community-based grief support groups for children and youth ages 4-18, organized by children’s ages.
Talk time will be combined with play and other types of creative healing experiences (such as art, writing, or music). Concurrent parent and caregiver groups
will help caregivers understand youth bereavement and offer parenting techniques to strengthen the family as they heal and move forward.
https://www.facebook.com/kychildrengrieve/
https://www.instagram.com/kychildrengrieve/
https://www.kcgcf.org/
The Kentucky Center for Grieving Children and Families, Inc. just launched in the fall of 2021 and provides its community grief services free of charge.
Through donations and community support they provide activities and programs that support Kentucky families as they grieve and heal. KCGCF offers student
grief support groups and family/caregiver education and support for youth and families in the following schools in Fayette County, Kentucky. If you are interested
in having your child join a grief support group, please contact the school’s Family Resource and Youth Services Center or email kychildrengrieve@gmail.com.
The KCGCF also works with grieving families to provide community referrals for additional services and supports, including individual therapy and therapeutic recreation opportunities. The KCGCF offers expert training in youth bereavement (its hallmarks, trauma-informed strategies for supporting grieving children, how
to support grieving families and encourage resilient parenting). Presentations and training can be arranged for schools, churches, social service agencies, workplaces, and community groups. In 2022, they hope to launch free, community-based grief support groups for children and youth ages 4-18, organized by children’s ages.
Talk time will be combined with play and other types of creative healing experiences (such as art, writing, or music). Concurrent parent and caregiver groups
will help caregivers understand youth bereavement and offer parenting techniques to strengthen the family as they heal and move forward.
https://www.facebook.com/kychildrengrieve/
https://www.instagram.com/kychildrengrieve/
https://www.kcgcf.org/
Kelly's Grief Center
Kelly’s Grief Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that was founded in 2009 to provide support and counseling by licensed clinicians for adults, teens
and children grieving the loss of a loved one. Kelly’s is committed to making sure help will be accessible and of the highest professional quality.
The center serves individuals of all ages and offers support through both one-on-one counseling and/or therapy groups. These groups are designed
to provide a safe and supportive setting for people to share their loss journey, gain knowledge about grief and learn helpful coping strategies.
www.kellysgriefcenter.org
Kelly’s Grief Center is a non-profit 501(c)(3) that was founded in 2009 to provide support and counseling by licensed clinicians for adults, teens
and children grieving the loss of a loved one. Kelly’s is committed to making sure help will be accessible and of the highest professional quality.
The center serves individuals of all ages and offers support through both one-on-one counseling and/or therapy groups. These groups are designed
to provide a safe and supportive setting for people to share their loss journey, gain knowledge about grief and learn helpful coping strategies.
www.kellysgriefcenter.org
My Good Grief Journal For Kids
This iPad App was created for children who have had a precious loved one or dear friend die.
This tool is also designed for use by parents and other adults responsible for the care of children who grieve.
http://mygoodgriefjournalforkids.com/
https://www.facebook.com/MyGoodGriefJournalforKids/
This iPad App was created for children who have had a precious loved one or dear friend die.
This tool is also designed for use by parents and other adults responsible for the care of children who grieve.
http://mygoodgriefjournalforkids.com/
https://www.facebook.com/MyGoodGriefJournalforKids/
National Alliance for Grieving Children (NAGC)
The National Alliance for Grieving Children promotes awareness of the needs of children and teens grieving a death and provides education and
resources for anyone who wants to support them...because all grieving children deserve a chance to heal.
https://www.facebook.com/NAGCnews/
https://childrengrieve.org
Search their support directory for programs in your state: https://childrengrieve.org/find-support
Idaho specific program listings: https://childrengrieve.org/find-support/9-find-support/18-programs-in-idaho
Instagram: @childrengrieve
The National Alliance for Grieving Children promotes awareness of the needs of children and teens grieving a death and provides education and
resources for anyone who wants to support them...because all grieving children deserve a chance to heal.
https://www.facebook.com/NAGCnews/
https://childrengrieve.org
Search their support directory for programs in your state: https://childrengrieve.org/find-support
Idaho specific program listings: https://childrengrieve.org/find-support/9-find-support/18-programs-in-idaho
Instagram: @childrengrieve
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
The Network's mission is to raise the standard of care & improve access to services for traumatized children, their families, & communities across the United States.
Download their free guide: Helping Teens with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers
https://www.nctsn.org/
The Network's mission is to raise the standard of care & improve access to services for traumatized children, their families, & communities across the United States.
Download their free guide: Helping Teens with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers
https://www.nctsn.org/
Safe Crossings Foundation (SCF)
Safe Crossings Foundation (SCF) is dedicated to helping grieving children who have lost a parent, sibling, or other loved one to heal and thrive.
By researching and funding leading-edge grief recovery programs in the Puget Sound Washington region, they provide free resources to help kids safely
navigate loss, rediscover their joy, and emerge as emotionally healthy and resilient members of their families and communities.
https://www.facebook.com/safecrossingsfoundation/
http://safecrossingsfoundation.org/
Safe Crossings Foundation (SCF) is dedicated to helping grieving children who have lost a parent, sibling, or other loved one to heal and thrive.
By researching and funding leading-edge grief recovery programs in the Puget Sound Washington region, they provide free resources to help kids safely
navigate loss, rediscover their joy, and emerge as emotionally healthy and resilient members of their families and communities.
https://www.facebook.com/safecrossingsfoundation/
http://safecrossingsfoundation.org/
Sources of Strength
Sources of Strength provides the highest quality evidence-based prevention for suicide, violence, bullying and substance abuse by training,
supporting, and empowering both peer leaders and caring adults to impact their world through the power of connection, hope, help and strength.
https://sourcesofstrength.org/
Instagram: @sourcesofstrength
Sources of Strength provides the highest quality evidence-based prevention for suicide, violence, bullying and substance abuse by training,
supporting, and empowering both peer leaders and caring adults to impact their world through the power of connection, hope, help and strength.
https://sourcesofstrength.org/
Instagram: @sourcesofstrength
TeamMercy.org
TeamMercy.org is a 501c3 non-profit foundation providing connections to resources for families facing the death of a child. TeamMercy assists grieving
families, specifically the siblings, through one of life’s most difficult tragedies, by providing funding for an existing activity for those siblings through
Mercy’s Gift: a grant providing funding for an existing extra-curricular, academic, or mental health related activity. They also mail out free age appropriate
Grief Care Packs for grieving kids. Each child grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong way or length of time to grieve. 73,00 Children die every year
in the United States. Of those children, 83% have surviving siblings. To learn more about TeamMercy's mission and services visit: https://teammercy.org/
TeamMercy.org is a 501c3 non-profit foundation providing connections to resources for families facing the death of a child. TeamMercy assists grieving
families, specifically the siblings, through one of life’s most difficult tragedies, by providing funding for an existing activity for those siblings through
Mercy’s Gift: a grant providing funding for an existing extra-curricular, academic, or mental health related activity. They also mail out free age appropriate
Grief Care Packs for grieving kids. Each child grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong way or length of time to grieve. 73,00 Children die every year
in the United States. Of those children, 83% have surviving siblings. To learn more about TeamMercy's mission and services visit: https://teammercy.org/
Teenage Grief Sucks
Teenage Grief Sucks serves as a platform for articles ranging from what it's like to go to driving school when you're grieving, to tips for
how teens can support their grieving friends. It is opening up conversations about teenage grief one story at a time.Grief Out Loud Podcast Interview with Teenage Grief Sucks Founder: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/14792453
https://www.teenagegriefsucks.com/
Teenage Grief Sucks serves as a platform for articles ranging from what it's like to go to driving school when you're grieving, to tips for
how teens can support their grieving friends. It is opening up conversations about teenage grief one story at a time.Grief Out Loud Podcast Interview with Teenage Grief Sucks Founder: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/14792453
https://www.teenagegriefsucks.com/
TeenCounseling
TeenCounseling is an online platform where teens from ages 13-19 can get help from a licensed therapist online. TeenCounseling.com
makes affordable, discreet, professional counseling available through a computer, tablet, or smartphone. All teens can benefit from
having a professional counselor at their fingertips to discuss issues such as coping skills, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, depression,
bullying, anger, eating disorders or any other mental challenges.
https://www.facebook.com/teencounselingonline/
https://www.teencounseling.com/
TeenCounseling is an online platform where teens from ages 13-19 can get help from a licensed therapist online. TeenCounseling.com
makes affordable, discreet, professional counseling available through a computer, tablet, or smartphone. All teens can benefit from
having a professional counselor at their fingertips to discuss issues such as coping skills, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, depression,
bullying, anger, eating disorders or any other mental challenges.
https://www.facebook.com/teencounselingonline/
https://www.teencounseling.com/
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Worldwide Dragon Shooting Day, Inc.
Worldwide Dragon Shooting Day, Inc. is a 501c3 non profit whose mission is to provide financial relief and opportunities for children and adults who have been affected by grief and or trauma by providing a sense of community, therapy, and financial relief through Dragon Shoot events and other related activities. They provide structured support to children and families experiencing grief through universally-appealing and unique tools. WWDSD strives to be the leading edge in grief and trauma healing and in Sheboygan County and Wisconsin state and to provide the most effective grief and trauma healing while removing all social stigma. Grief is a metaphorical "dragon" that they help "slay" with numerous archery events and fundraisers. Via archery, they believe the process of coping and healing to be a lifelong journey and the bow string is an "invisible connection" to personal loss that brings us all together. Hosted in collaboration with archery clubs all over the world, Dragon Shoot events introduce participants to therapy through archery and raise money for an individual, a family, or a specific cause that aligns with their mission. They hope that their events and programs inspire others to keep moving forward, one arrow at a time. To find out about WWDSD and to get involved follow them on Instagram at @worldwidedragonshootingday and visit www.worldwidedragonshootingday.com/ |
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Articles, Resource Links, Podcasts, videos & More
Being There For Grieving Children
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Children's Grief Awareness Day
November 17, 2022 Children's Grief Awareness Day is designed to help us all become more aware of the needs of grieving children — and of the benefits they obtain through the support of others. Children's Grief Awareness Day is an opportunity to make sure that grieving children receive the support they need. www.childrensgriefawarenessday.org https://www.facebook.com/ChildGriefDay/ |
Children's Grieving - How Children Mourn
Cool crafts for coping: Fortune teller
Creative Expression for grief: A tool for supporting grieving kids from "Art with heart"
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The Do’s and Don’t’s of Talking With a Child About the Death of a Loved One
Guest Blog by Danica Thurber, of Project Grief, professional artist, therapeutic art Life Coach, and art teacher. She's also the art ministry director at Vineyard Boise. Danica lost her dad sudden to a heart attack when she was just 12 years old. |
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Guardianlane
Fun online bereavement counseling for kids! Bringing grief therapy to a world our kids are comfortable in.
https://www.facebook.com/guardianlane/
https://www.guardianlane.com/
Fun online bereavement counseling for kids! Bringing grief therapy to a world our kids are comfortable in.
https://www.facebook.com/guardianlane/
https://www.guardianlane.com/
Grief Outloud Podcast from The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families
Grief Out Loud is opening up this often avoided conversation because grief is hard enough without having to go through it alone.
They provide a mix of personal stories, tips for supporting children, teens, and yourself, and interviews with bereavement professionals.
Platitude and cliché-free! Grief Out Loud is hosted by Jana DeCristofaro and produced by The Dougy Center for Grieving Children & Families in Portland, Oregon.
https://www.dougy.org/grief-resources/grief-out-loud-podcast/
Grief Out Loud - Episode 150: A Love, Anger & Grief - Supporting Children After a Murder
How would you tell your children that their father murdered their grandparents? This is the heartbreaking question Jenn, whose children were 6 and 10
at the time, faced when she got the news that her ex-husband killed his parents. This is the story behind the facts that we read in the news.
The story of three people navigating grief that changed every aspect of their lives. It's also a story of love. Of anger. And of hope.
FREE Download from The Dougy Center: Tips for Supporting Children & Teens Grieving a Murder or Violent Death
Available from The Dougy Center Store: After a Murder: A Workbook For Grieving Children
Through the stories, thoughts and feelings of other kids who have experienced a murder, this hands-on workbook allows children to see that they
are not alone in their feelings and experiences. The workbook includes drawing activities, puzzles and word games to help explain confusing
elements specific to a murder, such as the police, media and legal system.
Grief Out Loud is opening up this often avoided conversation because grief is hard enough without having to go through it alone.
They provide a mix of personal stories, tips for supporting children, teens, and yourself, and interviews with bereavement professionals.
Platitude and cliché-free! Grief Out Loud is hosted by Jana DeCristofaro and produced by The Dougy Center for Grieving Children & Families in Portland, Oregon.
https://www.dougy.org/grief-resources/grief-out-loud-podcast/
Grief Out Loud - Episode 150: A Love, Anger & Grief - Supporting Children After a Murder
How would you tell your children that their father murdered their grandparents? This is the heartbreaking question Jenn, whose children were 6 and 10
at the time, faced when she got the news that her ex-husband killed his parents. This is the story behind the facts that we read in the news.
The story of three people navigating grief that changed every aspect of their lives. It's also a story of love. Of anger. And of hope.
FREE Download from The Dougy Center: Tips for Supporting Children & Teens Grieving a Murder or Violent Death
Available from The Dougy Center Store: After a Murder: A Workbook For Grieving Children
Through the stories, thoughts and feelings of other kids who have experienced a murder, this hands-on workbook allows children to see that they
are not alone in their feelings and experiences. The workbook includes drawing activities, puzzles and word games to help explain confusing
elements specific to a murder, such as the police, media and legal system.
Grief Out Loud: Teens Talk About Loss
Helping Children Cope With Grief - By Willow House
Hey Siri, How Do I Grieve? Hosted by Experience Camps
The way people grieve is being profoundly altered by technology, from social media to the boom in “death tech.” These tools can bring us together or
heighten isolation at a time when we need connection most. This thought-provoking session, "Hey Siri, How Do I Grieve," will explore controversial practices,
changing rituals, and the emerging trends shaping how millions are grieving now. Listen to bold tech innovators, a grief therapist, and grieving teens
on what has changed, what hasn’t, and what might impact the way you deal with one of the hardest issues of all.
heighten isolation at a time when we need connection most. This thought-provoking session, "Hey Siri, How Do I Grieve," will explore controversial practices,
changing rituals, and the emerging trends shaping how millions are grieving now. Listen to bold tech innovators, a grief therapist, and grieving teens
on what has changed, what hasn’t, and what might impact the way you deal with one of the hardest issues of all.
How To Help Children Handle Grief After the Death of a Parent - By Kelsey Borresen
Kid's grief art project (death or divorce) with Project grief
How to discuss grief with children using the Disney movie Onward with Allison Gilbert
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FREE Webinar Replay
Trauma-Responsive Care: Rebuilding Trust After Trauma Presented by Beth Winkler Tyson, Psychotherapist, Parenting Coach & Children's Book Author If you or a loved once have experienced a trauma, please Beth for the latest research and tools on how to cope with trauma and loss. You will walk away with practical tools and information that will shift your perspective on both you and your child’s behavior. This webinar is open to adults, parents, caregivers, and professionals working with children. She will explain what is considered a traumatic event, how it impacts the brain and nervous system, and what we can do to move forward in life with a whole heart. There is always hope and the potential for post-traumatic growth if we take the time to process our experiences. Beth used personal experience to motivate her to become a specialist in trauma and loss therapy. She not only know the clinical tools to heal, but she has been through it herself. https://youtu.be/LBXRWhHf4vE |
The Psych Central Podcast: Helping Children Grieve
When children experience the deep pain of separation or death, it can be extremely healing to learn they are still connected to their loved ones by an invisible
string of love. That’s the premise of the children’s book The Invisible String, written by Patrice Karst, the guest on this episode of the Psych Central podcast.
Patrice sits down to talk with Gabe about what sparked her idea for writing this classic book as well as her subsequent books, including The Invisible Leash,
a story to help kids deal with the loss of a pet. As Patrice puts it, her books are about love and connection to each other, to our animals, and to the planet.
https://psychcentral.com/blog/podcast-helping-children-grieve/
When children experience the deep pain of separation or death, it can be extremely healing to learn they are still connected to their loved ones by an invisible
string of love. That’s the premise of the children’s book The Invisible String, written by Patrice Karst, the guest on this episode of the Psych Central podcast.
Patrice sits down to talk with Gabe about what sparked her idea for writing this classic book as well as her subsequent books, including The Invisible Leash,
a story to help kids deal with the loss of a pet. As Patrice puts it, her books are about love and connection to each other, to our animals, and to the planet.
https://psychcentral.com/blog/podcast-helping-children-grieve/
Sesame Street for Military Families - Grief
https://sesamestreetformilitaryfamilies.org/topic/grief/?ytid=a2VpflpbOmk
Sesame Street For Families: When Families Grieve
When a Student Loses a Sibling: A Toolkit For Schools
Teachers – Would you know how to support a student after the sudden loss of a sibling? Following such a traumatic event, children need the right support, understanding and interventions from parents and other influential adults – including their teachers. The Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood Foundation has put together a toolkit for schools with resources on how to support surviving siblings and general grief information for coping with any loss a student may experience. Download it here: https://sudc.org/.../2021/08/Sibling-Toolkit-8.12-.pdf
Visit the SUDC website for more resources at: https://sudc.org/
Teachers – Would you know how to support a student after the sudden loss of a sibling? Following such a traumatic event, children need the right support, understanding and interventions from parents and other influential adults – including their teachers. The Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood Foundation has put together a toolkit for schools with resources on how to support surviving siblings and general grief information for coping with any loss a student may experience. Download it here: https://sudc.org/.../2021/08/Sibling-Toolkit-8.12-.pdf
Visit the SUDC website for more resources at: https://sudc.org/
Support for Survivors of Murder-Suicide from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence
The Georgia Commission on Family Violence provides support, resources, and referrals to survivors of domestic violence murder-suicide
in the State of Georgia. There are several downloadable PDF documents with helpful information on dealing with the after effects of a
murder-suicide, included several for talking with children about this very difficult topic.
https://gcfv.georgia.gov/support-survivors-murder-suicide
The Georgia Commission on Family Violence provides support, resources, and referrals to survivors of domestic violence murder-suicide
in the State of Georgia. There are several downloadable PDF documents with helpful information on dealing with the after effects of a
murder-suicide, included several for talking with children about this very difficult topic.
https://gcfv.georgia.gov/support-survivors-murder-suicide
Supporting Students Coping With Grief
This guidebook provides research and expert driven information and tips on how grief affects children and young adults and how
education professionals can help them navigate their feelings and remain successful in school.
https://www.mswdegrees.org/resources/helping-students-cope-grief
This guidebook provides research and expert driven information and tips on how grief affects children and young adults and how
education professionals can help them navigate their feelings and remain successful in school.
https://www.mswdegrees.org/resources/helping-students-cope-grief
Talking to Kids About Death and Grief: 10 Comprehensive Tips
https://whatsyourgrief.com/talking-kids-death-grief-10-comprehensive-tips/?fbclid=IwAR1rcqkXrca8ByeyNXEBnwFVM2G7hOR5nFge08AIaYVTiFVjObDjwtkSzdk
https://whatsyourgrief.com/talking-kids-death-grief-10-comprehensive-tips/?fbclid=IwAR1rcqkXrca8ByeyNXEBnwFVM2G7hOR5nFge08AIaYVTiFVjObDjwtkSzdk
Teenage Grief Sucks: Grief Out Loud Podcast - Episode 152
When Natalie's dad died suddenly at the start of her freshman year of high school, she searched, but couldn't find what she most needed:
a resource written for and by other grieving teens. She decided to create one launching the website Teenage Grief Sucks in March 2020 which serves
as a platform for articles ranging from what it's like to go to driving school when you're grieving to tips for how teens can support their grieving friends.
To read Natalie's work, or contribute your own, visit www.teenagegriefsucks.com
When Natalie's dad died suddenly at the start of her freshman year of high school, she searched, but couldn't find what she most needed:
a resource written for and by other grieving teens. She decided to create one launching the website Teenage Grief Sucks in March 2020 which serves
as a platform for articles ranging from what it's like to go to driving school when you're grieving to tips for how teens can support their grieving friends.
To read Natalie's work, or contribute your own, visit www.teenagegriefsucks.com
Teen Grief Support
The Teen Grief Support community is a safe place for teens to talk, rant, and support one another throughout the grieving process. Teens are free to share their
story or get something off their chest by becoming a member and joining in the forum. There are also coping skills, helpful tips, hotlines and online resources.
https://teengriefsupport.wixsite.com/supportgroup
The Teen Grief Support community is a safe place for teens to talk, rant, and support one another throughout the grieving process. Teens are free to share their
story or get something off their chest by becoming a member and joining in the forum. There are also coping skills, helpful tips, hotlines and online resources.
https://teengriefsupport.wixsite.com/supportgroup
Teens & Grief PDF - The Prevention Researcher, April 2002, Vol. 9, No. 2
This PDF newsletter is full of great articles about Teens & Grief including:
Teens & Grief by Donna Schuurman, Ed.D and Amy Barrett Lindholm, M.S.
Helping Adolescents Cope with Long Term Illness and Death by Dr. Charles A. Corr
Suicide of a Parent: Child and Adolescent Bereavement by Julie Cerel, Ph.D., Mary Fristad, Ph.D., A.B.P.P., Elizabeth B. Weller, M.D., and Ronald Weller, M.D.
Problems of Adjustment for Bereaved Siblings by Gordon Riches, M.A.
Adolescent Bereavement and the Domain of Preventions by David E. Balk, Ph.D.
When Death Impacts Your School - by The Prevention Researcher Editors
Download the PDF at: https://www.gvsu.edu/cms4/asset/903124DF-BD7F-3286-FE3330AA44F994DE/teens_a_grief_2.pdf
This PDF newsletter is full of great articles about Teens & Grief including:
Teens & Grief by Donna Schuurman, Ed.D and Amy Barrett Lindholm, M.S.
Helping Adolescents Cope with Long Term Illness and Death by Dr. Charles A. Corr
Suicide of a Parent: Child and Adolescent Bereavement by Julie Cerel, Ph.D., Mary Fristad, Ph.D., A.B.P.P., Elizabeth B. Weller, M.D., and Ronald Weller, M.D.
Problems of Adjustment for Bereaved Siblings by Gordon Riches, M.A.
Adolescent Bereavement and the Domain of Preventions by David E. Balk, Ph.D.
When Death Impacts Your School - by The Prevention Researcher Editors
Download the PDF at: https://www.gvsu.edu/cms4/asset/903124DF-BD7F-3286-FE3330AA44F994DE/teens_a_grief_2.pdf
10 Ways to Help a Grieving Child - By Pamela Gabbay, EdD, FT
National Alliance for Grieving Children
https://childrengrieve.org/resources/10-ways-to-help-a-grieving-child
National Alliance for Grieving Children
https://childrengrieve.org/resources/10-ways-to-help-a-grieving-child
Too Damn Young
A community and resource for teens and young adults who are navigating grief.
https://www.facebook.com/2damnyoung
http://toodamnyoung.com/
A community and resource for teens and young adults who are navigating grief.
https://www.facebook.com/2damnyoung
http://toodamnyoung.com/
What's Your Grief? - Resources for Kids and Teens
https://whatsyourgrief.com/kids-teens-and-grief/
https://whatsyourgrief.com/kids-teens-and-grief/
When a Child You Love Is Grieving - By Harold Ivan Smith
When a Friend Dies: Guidelines for Students - By the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide
When a Teacher or Classmate Dies: Helping Students Grieve When COVID-19 Prevents Physical Gathering - By Donna Schuurman, EdD, F
The Widowed Mom Podcast
The Widowed Mom Podcast offers practical and empowering strategies for widowed moms.
There are many episodes on helping grieving children and teens.
https://www.coachingwithkrista.com/category/podcast/
The Widowed Mom Podcast offers practical and empowering strategies for widowed moms.
There are many episodes on helping grieving children and teens.
https://www.coachingwithkrista.com/category/podcast/
The Widowed Parent Podcast
The Widowed Parent Podcast is your guide to the murky waters of “only-parenting“ after the loss of a spouse.
There are many episodes on helping grieving children and teens.
https://www.jennylisk.com/podcast-main
The Widowed Parent Podcast is your guide to the murky waters of “only-parenting“ after the loss of a spouse.
There are many episodes on helping grieving children and teens.
https://www.jennylisk.com/podcast-main
Books on grief for children & Teens
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An Angel Gave Us Our Angel - By Kristin McQuaid
An Angel Gave Us Our Angel is a book written for children to help better understand the loss of a sibling through miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss via a surrogate. The mother of this book cannot have children on her own, so the family will “borrow a belly” to allow their baby to grow. This is not always the most straightforward subject for young children to understand, so the book makes it simple to learn about surrogacy/gestational carriers and battle through the unthinkable - infant loss. The story is narrated by the family dog Gunner, who has been counting down the days to meet his little sister. Gunner walks us through many emotions that any child or family member may experience or is currently experiencing. The author, whose baby was stillborn on July 14, 2021, wanted the reader to learn that there is hope through all the tears, pain, and sadness. She hopes that those we lost too soon can still bring us comfort and peace through tough times. Dinosaurs Divorce - By Laurie Krasny Brown & Marc Brown
A comprehensive, sensitive guide for changing families, Dinosaurs Divorce helps readers understand what divorce means, why it happens, and how to best cope with everyone's feelings. Eddie's Brave Journey: How One Little Elephant Learned All About Grief
- Story By Randi Pearlman Wolfson & Illustrated By Kittaya Treseangrat Eddie is a young elephant whose grandpa has died. As he experiences great big feelings, he wonders what to do. Setting out on a brave journey, Eddie learns from other animals about the feelings of grief and how to help his heart begin healing. |
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Feathers From Above - By Ashley Niemela
Feathers From Above is a children's story that focuses on the struggles children face when dealing with the grief and loss of a loved one. Oftentimes, children have trouble coping and understanding death. This book helps put a positive approach to an easy-to-understand story that involves a young boy dealing with the loss of his grandpa. It also focuses on the significance and symbolism behind white feathers and provides some hope and light to a subject that everyone must face. Finding the Words: How to Talk with Children and Teens About Death, Suicide, Homicide, Funerals, Cremation, and End-of-Life Matters
- By Alan D. Wolfelt With this compassionate book by respected grief counselor and educator Dr. Alan Wolfelt, readers will find simplified and suitable methods for talking to children and teenagers about sensitive topics with an emphasis on the subject of death. Honest but child-appropriate language is advocated, and various wording and levels of explanation are suggested for different ages when discussing topics such as death in general, suicide, homicide, accidental death, the death of a child, terminal illness, pet death, funerals, and cremation. An ideal book for parents, caregivers, and counselors looking for an easy resource when talking to youths about death, this book can be used for any setting, religious or otherwise. Finding Your Own Way to Grieve: A Creative Activity Workbook for Kids and Teens on the Autism Spectrum - By Karla Helbert
Children and teenagers with autism can struggle to cope with the loss of a loved one, and the complicated and painful emotions of bereavement. This book explains death in concrete terms that the child with autism will understand, explores feelings that the child may encounter as a part of bereavement, and offers creative and expressive activities that facilitate healing. With illustrations throughout, this interactive book begins with a simple story about what happens when people die. Each chapter then expands on the issues that have been raised in the story and offers a variety of coping skills exercises including writing, art and craft, cooking, movement, relaxation, and remembrance activities. Encouraging children with autism to express their loss through discussion, personal reflection, and creative activity, the book is ideal forchildren and teens to work through by themselves, or with the support of a family member or professional. |
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The Fox and the Feather: A Children's Book for the Grieving Heart - By Kendall Lanning
This book is for everyone who has felt the loss of someone they love. I truly hope you find joy in the small things in life, and the signs you receive from your loved ones. Goodnight Mr. Vincent van Gogh - By Lindsey Doolittle
Goodnight Mr. Vincent van Gogh offers a gentle way of explaining a loved one’s suicide to a child without sweeping it under the rug. By starting an open and honest conversation with our youth, we can help break down the stigmas and start raising mental health awareness. We need to teach our children that it’s ok to speak up and ask questions about feelings they might not understand instead of keeping our emotions hidden. This book includes resources on suicide support, a space to write a letter to your lost loved one, and a page where you can attach his/her photo. For each book that is purchased, part of the proceeds to go to SASS (Suicide Awareness Survivor Support). A Grandfamily For Sullivan: Coping Skills For Kinship Care Families - By Beth Winkler Tyson
A Grandfamily For Sullivan is a story about a young koala who goes to live with his Grandma when his parents are unable to keep him safe. The story addresses Sullivan's feelings of loss, sadness, and anxiety, as he learns the truth about why his parents can't take care of him. Sullivan's story is a critical tool for therapists, social workers, teachers, and caregivers to talk about the reasons why children can't live at home, in a child-friendly manner. The story also incorporates coping skills for loss and trauma that children can easily implement in their lives. |
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Grief Doodling: Bringing Back Your Smiles - By Harriet Hodgson
From the very first page, Grief Doodling invites action. Topics range from the benefits of doodling, to why doodling is fun, to doodling tips, and responding to doodling prompts. The prompts, based on grief research, promote self-worth and healing. This is a hopeful book—something all grieving kids need. The Heart and the Bottle - By Oliver Jeffers
There is a wonder and magic to childhood. We don’t realize it at the time, of course . . . yet the adults in our lives do. They encourage us to see things in the stars, to find joy in colors and laughter as we play. But what happens when that special someone who encourages such wonder and magic is no longer around? We can hide, we can place our heart in a bottle and grow up . . . or we can find another special someone who understands the magic. And we can encourage them to see things in the stars, find joy among colors and laughter as they play. Oliver Jeffers delivers a remarkable book, a touching and resonant tale reminiscent of The Giving Tree that will speak to the hearts of children and parents alike. Hurt: Equipping Children for Loss - By Thera Storm, LCSW
Bert saves the day by applying bandages on scraped knees and booboos. He soon discovers that bandages aren't always the solution for every painful situation. It's not until Bert experiences his own "hurt" that he recognizes how his way of helping created more frustration. In this book, we learn how easy it is to equip our children to express their emotions and provide comfort to others rather than use bandages to cover up the pain. I Am Here For You!: A Story to Support Your Grieving Child Through Death From Suicide - By Carla Mitchell, MSW
Puddle Jumper Publishing helps caring adults support grieving children. Carefully crafted stories will help you find the words to discuss death and feelings of grief with a young child (4-12 years old). I Am Here For You: A Story to Support Your Grieving Child Through Death From Suicide will help you discuss the topic of suicide using nature elements and child friendly rhymes. Each story includes a place for the child to capture their favorite memories or photos, suggestions for remembering their loved one, ideas for coping with feelings of grief, and resources for caring adults. This story uses the pronoun "he/him/his" to describe the person who died. I'm An Earth Angel - By Erin Hourahan
Join the kids at the Healing Grace School as they come together to learn, grow and have fun with the help of their loved ones who have crossed over. Help your Earth Angel learn the power of healing after the loss of a loved one through this simple and imaginative story. I'm An Earth Angel helps children recognize that the strength of love never dies. Whether it is the loss of a person or pet, children can feel the comfort and strength in knowing that their loved one is always with them. |
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In His Absence I Can Still Feel His Presence - By Jalisa Rose Smith
In His Absence I Can Still Feel His Presence encourages our youth on how to overcome the loss of their loved ones. Losing a loved one is not easy. As a child it can be even painful. This book encourages our youth through words of encouragement, scriptures and prayer. It also allows them to list things they are feeling inside and share pictures of their loved ones. The pain from losing a loved one will not go away overnight, but this book is step one to bring happiness back to our youth face and peace back into their hearts. This book is designated for each time our youth pick up and read this book they will gain strength and understanding that in the absence of their loved ones they will still prosper because their loved ones presence is felt. The Invisible Leash: A Story Celebrating Love After the Loss of a Pet - By Patrice Karst
Patrice Karst's gentle story uses the same bonding technique from her classic book The Invisible String to help readers through the experience of the loss of a beloved animal. The Invisible String - By Patrice Karst
Recommended and adopted by parenting blogs, bereavement support groups, hospice centers, foster care and social service agencies, military library services, church groups, and educators, The Invisible String offers a very simple approach to overcoming loneliness, separation, or loss with an imaginative twist that children easily understand and embrace, and delivers a particularly compelling message in today's uncertain times. I've Got An Angel Now - By Maya J. McNeary
Grief is never easy, especially for children. Follow along as a young girl loses her sister and learns that, even in her grief, her sister became her angel. Written by educator and motivational speaker Maya J. McNeary, this book will help any young child process through loss and grieve with hope. 
Kai's Journey - Book Series By The New York Life Foundation
Kai’s Journey is a series about a little boy named Kai who, together with his mom, learns how to navigate a profound loss in their family. The books are dedicated to children and families who have experienced the death of a loved one, and strives to help them better understand, process, and communicate their grief. Download your free PDF copy of 'The Golden Sweater,' 'The Girl With the Locket,' and 'The Fishless Lake,' the New York Life Foundation will donate $1 for every download to one of our four bereavement partners, up to $175,000. They also have a discussion guide to help children & families have productive conversations about the challenging and important themes in the book. |
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A Kids Book About Grief - By Brennan C. Wood & Emma Wolf
Grief is a small word for a BIG experience. Grief affects us emotionally, but also physically, socially, spiritually, and really in every part of our lives. But the important thing to know is that grief is natural, normal, and healthy, and it’s an experience we all have because we’re human. A Kids Book About Suicide - By Angela N. Frazier
We tend to avoid talking about the things that make us uncomfortable, suicide is one of those topics. A lot of us feel it’s a conversation that’s too much for kids to handle but talking to kids about suicide is a foundational conversation that will equip them for the rest of their lives. This book will help give kids a foundation to begin to understand suicide and start an open conversation with the people in their lives about life and death. A Land Called Grief - By Maddie Janes
A Land Called Grief is a story that helps little and big kids alike understand the emotions that show up when we navigate through the stages of grief. Although grief can be heavy, A Land Called Grief, helps us understand that our grief can be turned in something beautiful. A beauty that can heal. A beauty that can be shared. |
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The Loss This is Forever: The Lifelong Impact of the Early Death of a Mother or Father - By Maxine Harris
More than 60 men and women who lost a parent at an early age contributed their stories to this investigation of an important life event by a practicing psychotherapist. Their stories, including accounts of some famous figures: C.S. Lewis, Virginia Woolf, Eleanor Roosevelt, shed light on a legacy of loss the author views as "the psychological Great Divide, separating the world into a permanent 'before and after.'" Whatever form the impact of this loss takes in later adult life, it can be rage, driving ambition, fear of intimacy, these life stories amply demonstrate the indelible character of the mark left on the child. These are also stories of recovery, of people who became more than survivors, testifying to the repair of damage from childhood trauma. This enlightening presentation opens up a seldom discussed topic. Lulu Faces Loss and Finds Encouragement - By Danica Thurber Give children a way to creatively express their thoughts and emotions about death & grief. Follow along with Lulu as she navigates her first major loss, and then walks through the first few months of grief, finding support and encouragement along the way. Based on the author’s own experience of childhood loss, parents and caretakers will find this book a great support in engaging children in difficult conversations about cancer, hospice, death, and grief. “Lulu Faces Loss and Finds Encouragement” can also be a helpful, tangible gift for a family who’s recently experienced loss. BONUS material inside: instructions for a CRAFT PROJECT just like Lulu makes in the book! Mae the Courageous Caterpillar - By Michele Gates
Mae The Courageous Caterpillar is an interactive storybook that invites children who have suffered a loss or are going through a difficult time to join Mae on an adventure as she shares the story of a time she underwent a difficult change while facing loss, yet managed to experience happiness on the other side. It is the author's hope that this book serve as an interactive tool for children experiencing grief and or confusion due to a loss or difficult time. She hopes it helps them to know and feel that they matter, they are loved and they are not alone. Activities such as storytelling, writing and coloring are utilized throughout the book as tools to encourage and assist the reader to verbalize, in some way, what they may have otherwise not been able to. Michele, the author, feels her own heart slipped into a cocoon the day she lost her mother, to suicide, five days following her fifth birthday. Mae's story is Michele's story. The Magical Soul - By Marisela Marquez
The Magical Soul is an invitation to inspire hope for children who are grieving the loss of a loved one and encourages them to believe in something beyond physicality. One of the most challenging things any parent or guardian can do is have a conversation about death with a child. This scenario is what inspired Marisela to write The Magical Soul Book. Marie had lost her Papa when she was very young. She often wondered, "Where is he now?" Full of questions and curiosity Marie asks her Mother about her Papa. Their conversation touches on the distinction between the body and the soul, "The Magical Soul." Marie's Mother describes how love never dies and the connection we still have with our lost loved ones. Their conversation explores the importance of living a fulfilled life even after our loved ones are physically gone. My Forever Guardian: Healing With Friends From the Loss of a Loved One - By Kristina Jones
My Forever Guardian” is a conversation between kids about how to heal from the loss of a loved one or animal. “My Forever Guardian” teaches kids how to heal with friends and as a community. This book is for children who are looking for ways to mentally and emotionally heal and transition a loved one from the physical world to being their Forever Guardian. The book also teaches children what to say to friends who have experienced a loss. This is the perfect book for your home, community center, church, school, counselor’s office, or as a gift for a child who just experienced a loss. In "My Forever Guardian", we learn from kids who have lost a sibling, a grandparent, a dog, and a parent. "My Forever Guardian" is about transitioning a relationship with a loved one and how to speak openly about it with friends. My Heart Will Stay - By Jennifer Leroux
My Heart Will Stay by Jennifer Leroux, is a gorgeously illustrated story, meant for grieving children and adults, that feels like a downy hug sent straight from heaven. Lyrically written, and stuffed with loving compassion, it wraps the reader in warmth and comfort. The author's mother died when she was young, so she knows well the heartache of losing a parent. Written to remember and honor loved one's who have left this Earth far too soon, this book allows readers to feel the endless love between parent and child and reminds them that love never dies. This precious book reminds us softly that even though sometimes our loved ones have to fly away, always their hearts will stay. |
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My Yellow Balloon - By Tiffany Papageorge
It all started at the carnival. . . .That’s where Joey makes a new friend: a bright yellow balloon. Joey and his beloved balloon do everything together, until the balloon accidentally slips off Joey’s wrist and flies far, far away. What will Joey do without his special friend? Tiffany Papageorge has crafted a poignant tale of love, loss, and letting go that will serve as a comforting guide to children who are navigating the complicated emotions of grief. Rich, luminous illustrations by Erwin Madrid perfectly capture these timeless themes, making them accessible to even the youngest reader. Honest, unflinching, and ultimately reassuring, My Yellow Balloon will resonate with anyone who has endured the darkness of grief, while offering hope for brighter days ahead. A Parent's Guide to Raising Grieving Children: Rebuilding Your Family after the Death of a Loved One
- By Phyllis R. Silverman & Madelyn Kelly When children lose someone they love, they lose part of their very identity. Life, as they knew it, will never be quite the same. The world that once felt dependable and safe may suddenly seem a frightening, uncertain place, where nobody understands what they're feeling. In this deeply sympathetic book, Phyllis R. Silverman and Madelyn Kelly offer wise guidance on virtually every aspect of childhood loss, from living with someone who's dying to preparing the funeral; from explaining death to a two year old to managing the moods of a grieving teenager; from dealing with people who don't understand to learning how and where to get help from friends, therapists, and bereavement groups; from developing a new sense of self to continuing a relationship with the person who died. Throughout, the authors advocate an open, honest approach, suggesting that our instinctive desire to "protect" children from the reality of death may be more harmful than helpful. |
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Red Birds - By Ashley Niemela
Red Birds is a children's story that deals with children struggling to understand the grief and loss of a loved one. It provides a positive approach available in an easy-to-understand story involving a young boy dealing with the loss of his Grandparents. The story focuses on the meaning behind the red bird/cardinal and sheds light on an otherwise dark subject. Someone I Love Died from a Drug Overdose - By Melody Ray
Accidental substance overdoses continue to rise across our country, leaving families at a loss as to how to tell and assist the children that are grieving. This story is an excellent tool for parents and caregivers. Includes a workbook, definitions, some facts and a note to the adult reading the story. |
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Someone I Love Died By Suicide - By Doreen Cammarata
This book is designed for adult caregivers to read to surviving youngsters following a suicidal death. The story allows individuals an opportunity to recognize normal grieving symptoms and to identify various interventions to promote healthy ways of coping with the death of a special person. Although the language used in the book is simplistic enough to be read along with children and ultimately stimulating family discussion, it can be beneficial to all who have been tragically devastated by suicide. It is recommended for this book to be utilized in conjunction with therapy. |
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7 Touching Books to Help Kids Understand Death and Grief - By Christie Burnett (article)
7 Touching Books to Help Kids Understand Death and Grief - By Christie Burnett (article)
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Tear Soup: A Recipe for Healing After Loss - By Pat Schwiebert
Good for children and adults, Tear Soup is a fictional story; a “recipe” for healing after the loss of a child. |
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What This Kid Wants Adults to Know About Grief - By Bryce Fields
Author, children’s grief advocate, and fourth-grader Bryce Fields gives voice to grieving children with his new book, “What This Kid Wants Adults to Know About Grief,” a guidebook for adults who are caring for “little hurting hearts.” The book contains candid insights and an array of talking points to open up a dialogue between adults and kids so that the care and healing process can be more collaborative. http://thiskidsgrief.com/ FREE PDF downloads on the following topics are also available, including a Grief Inventory Sheet, Info Sheet on How Schools Can Provide Grieving Children a Safe Haven & The Top 5 Tips This Kid Has For Adults About Grief |
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When Dinosaurs Die - By Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown
Straightforward and comprehensive, this indispensable book is a comforting aid to help young kids and families through a difficult time in their lives. No one can really understand death, but to children, the passing away of a loved one can be especially perplexing and troublesome. This is true whether the loss is a family member, friend, or pet. Here to offer advice and reassurance are the wise dinosaurs from the bestselling Dino Tale series. This succinct and thorough guide helps dispel the mystery and negative connotations associated with death, providing answers to kids' most-often asked questions. When Mama Goes To Heaven - By Jayna Russel
It's difficult to know how to support a grieving child who has lost their mother. Children can't always articulate their thoughts and feelings in words, but the good news is that their imaginations have a remarkable capacity for healing. This book seeks to provide a healing narrative about loss that helps them tap into that capacity. I like to believe that the people we love never really leave us, that their loving presence remains in the sunsets and the butterflies that cross our paths. May we all find peace and comfort in their love, and find ways to live lives that bring honor to their memories. When Someone Dies: A Children's Mindful How-To Guide on Grief and Loss - By Andrea Dorn, MSW
Navigating the grief and bereavement process can be a challenging and unpredictable experience, especially for children. Whether it’s the loss of a family member, friend, pet, or other loved one, children often don’t know how to cope with the complicated and complex emotions that accompany death. Written and illustrated by a therapist (and mother), Andrea Dorn, MSW, When Someone Dies walks children through the bereavement process in a simple, concrete, and developmentally appropriate way. Through the lens of mindfulness, children will learn how to say goodbye, make space for any emotions that arise, and work through their grief. Where Are You? - By Jeffery & Spencer Olsen
Jeffery Olsen and Spencer Olsen, a father-son team, have collaborated to create something meaningful from their own experience of losing half their family in a horrific automobile accident when Spencer was only seven-years-old. Where Are You? is written from Spencer’s recall of those childlike observations and captures the feelings, questions, and sorrow surrounding loss. It also sheds light on a healing journey that opens a deeper awareness and connection to those we love who have passed. Where Are You? reminds us that our loved ones live through us and are there to guide us and even celebrate us when we are willing to look and recognize the many possibilities. Why Do I Feel So Sad? A Grief Book for Children - By Tracy Lambert-Prater LPC
This is an inclusive, age-appropriate, illustrated kid's book designed to help young children understand their own grief. The examples and beautiful illustrations are rooted in real life, exploring the truth of loss and change, while remaining comforting and hopeful. Broad enough to encompass many forms of grief, this book reassures kids that they are not alone in their feelings andeven suggests simple things they can do to feel better, like drawing, dancing, and talking to friends and family. |
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My Grief connection founder, sara Cobb interviews author danica thurber about her children's book about grief,
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"Encouragement Flowers" Craft project |
In his absence i can still feel his presence - by jalisa rose smith |
The invisible string - by patrice karst |
tear soup - by pat schwibertwhen dinosaurs die: A guide to understanding death
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A Grandfamily for Sullivan - By beth winkler tysondinosaurs divorce - By Laurie Krasny brown & Marc brown |
Youth & Funerals: Understanding the Important Role Funerals and Memorialization Play In the Lives of Youth
https://www.funeralservicefoundation.org/resources/youth-and-funerals/
https://www.funeralservicefoundation.org/resources/youth-and-funerals/
Talking to Children & Teens About COVID-19 & Grief
The Do’s and Don’t’s of Talking With a Child About the Death of a Loved One
Guest Blog by Danica Thurber, of Project Grief, professional artist, therapeutic art Life Coach, and art teacher. She's also the art ministry director at Vineyard Boise.
Funerals In the Time of a Pandemic - A Toolkit For Children and Families
https://good-grief.org/wordpress/wp-content/themes/x-child/pdf/Children-Funerals-and-a-Pandemic.pdf
Good Grief provides direct support to grieving children and youth, educates communities, and advocates on behalf of the bereaved.
For more, visit: www.good-grief.org
Guest Blog by Danica Thurber, of Project Grief, professional artist, therapeutic art Life Coach, and art teacher. She's also the art ministry director at Vineyard Boise.
Funerals In the Time of a Pandemic - A Toolkit For Children and Families
https://good-grief.org/wordpress/wp-content/themes/x-child/pdf/Children-Funerals-and-a-Pandemic.pdf
Good Grief provides direct support to grieving children and youth, educates communities, and advocates on behalf of the bereaved.
For more, visit: www.good-grief.org
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GriefTalk - National Alliance For Grieving Children
GriefTalk is an initiative of the NAGC aimed at encouraging and supporting honest conversations around the topics of death and grief. This initiative has produced downloadable guides on the following topics, available at: https://childrengrieve.org/2-uncategorised/grieftalk-resource-guides Talking to Children about Death and Dying Talking to a Child or Teen to Let them know Someone has Died Talking about End of Life Memorials and Rituals Talking about Grieving as a Family The toolkits were created by a team of professionals who are dedicated NAGC members. With members across the United States, they advocate for supportive conversations in this critical moment where a child's life is changed forever. |
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Helping Your Children with Loss
Grief games & activities for children from grief therapist Thera Storm, LSCW.
https://claritycorp.us/helping-children-with-loss/
Grief games & activities for children from grief therapist Thera Storm, LSCW.
https://claritycorp.us/helping-children-with-loss/
Highmark Caring Place: A Center For Grieving Children, Adolescents and Their Families
COVID-19 Information and Updates
My Child Is Worried - PDF
Little Miss Counselor's Grief Resources
Little Miss Counselor is has been a school counselor with 14+ years of experience, worked with elementary and middle school students and supervising
aspiring school counselors. She with students ages 3-1st grade at an early childhood center. Her shop a on 'Teachers Pay Teacher' has a wide variety of great grief related resources for children life workbooks and coloring pages.
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor/Search:grief
National Alliance for Grieving Children: Hero Toolkit in support of Grieving Children and Teens
This free toolkit developed for Children, teens and their support network by the National Alliance for Grieving Children,
provides activities and conversations designed to empower each of us to become everyday 'heroes'.
https://www.newyorklife.com/foundation/bereavement-support
Parenting and Coronavirus FREE Webinar
Authors Julie Lythcott-Haims, Cara Natterson, Lori Gottlieb, Tina Payne Bryson, Katherine Reynolds Lewis
and Deborah Reber give advice on parenting in the coronavirus era.
https://vimeo.com/397865257?ref=em-v-share
Tips Sheets from The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families
https://www.dougy.org/grief-resources/tip-sheets/
When Your World is Already Upside Down: Supporting Grieving Children and Teens During COVID-19
Supporting Children & Teen When a Family Member is Dying in a Hospital or Care Facility
Supporting Grief In a Global Health Crisis - COVID-19 Specific Resources
Back To School With Grief and COVID-19 Pandemic
Beloved Community & Grief: Tips for Supporting Children When Someone Dies
COVID-19 Information and Updates
My Child Is Worried - PDF
Little Miss Counselor's Grief Resources
Little Miss Counselor is has been a school counselor with 14+ years of experience, worked with elementary and middle school students and supervising
aspiring school counselors. She with students ages 3-1st grade at an early childhood center. Her shop a on 'Teachers Pay Teacher' has a wide variety of great grief related resources for children life workbooks and coloring pages.
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Little-Miss-Counselor/Search:grief
National Alliance for Grieving Children: Hero Toolkit in support of Grieving Children and Teens
This free toolkit developed for Children, teens and their support network by the National Alliance for Grieving Children,
provides activities and conversations designed to empower each of us to become everyday 'heroes'.
https://www.newyorklife.com/foundation/bereavement-support
Parenting and Coronavirus FREE Webinar
Authors Julie Lythcott-Haims, Cara Natterson, Lori Gottlieb, Tina Payne Bryson, Katherine Reynolds Lewis
and Deborah Reber give advice on parenting in the coronavirus era.
https://vimeo.com/397865257?ref=em-v-share
Tips Sheets from The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families
https://www.dougy.org/grief-resources/tip-sheets/
When Your World is Already Upside Down: Supporting Grieving Children and Teens During COVID-19
Supporting Children & Teen When a Family Member is Dying in a Hospital or Care Facility
Supporting Grief In a Global Health Crisis - COVID-19 Specific Resources
Back To School With Grief and COVID-19 Pandemic
Beloved Community & Grief: Tips for Supporting Children When Someone Dies
When a Parent Dies By Suicide...What Kids Want to Know
https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/when-a-parent-dies-by-suicide
https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/when-a-parent-dies-by-suicide
Grief Apps for Parents & kids
GriefSteps for Parents
GriefSteps for Parents is a free, easily accessible mobile and web-based resource with useful information and activities for bereaved families. The program is
designed to help families understand grief and to build parents' confidence in effectively supporting their grieving children. GriefSteps for Parents was created by
the Center for Complicated Grief at Columbia University School of Social Work with funding support from the New York Life Foundation. Through the program you
can connect with their team of grief specialists who are knowledgeable about grief in adults and children and can answer questions and respond to comments.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/griefsteps-for-parents/id1277751812
GriefSteps for Parents is a free, easily accessible mobile and web-based resource with useful information and activities for bereaved families. The program is
designed to help families understand grief and to build parents' confidence in effectively supporting their grieving children. GriefSteps for Parents was created by
the Center for Complicated Grief at Columbia University School of Social Work with funding support from the New York Life Foundation. Through the program you
can connect with their team of grief specialists who are knowledgeable about grief in adults and children and can answer questions and respond to comments.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/griefsteps-for-parents/id1277751812
Mental Health, Grief & Trauma informed parenting RESOURCES
Podcast Episode: Ambiguous Loss with Stable Moments Founder Rebecca Britt and Beth Tyson, MA
https://www.bethtyson.com/post/podcast-ambiguous-loss-lifebooks-with-stable-moments-founder-rebecca-britt
https://www.bethtyson.com/post/podcast-ambiguous-loss-lifebooks-with-stable-moments-founder-rebecca-britt
Beth Tyson, MA - Childhood Trauma Consultant, Author & Public Speaker
Beth Tyson, MA, is a mom to a young girl, a psychotherapist, and a children’s book author who helps people understand the psychological impact of childhood trauma and how to assist the healing process in communities. Emotiminds is a group, run by Beth, for caregivers and professionals who would like
to learn tools and best practices for psychological development and what we can do to increase emotional resilience within our families. Emotiminds will leave
you and your child with the coping skills you need to face life head-on with emotional resiliency. Join at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1224385311244520
More information about Beth can be found at https://www.choosingtherapy.com/beth-tyson/ and at https://www.bethtyson.com/
Contact Beth at: beth@bethtyson.com
Beth Tyson, MA, is a mom to a young girl, a psychotherapist, and a children’s book author who helps people understand the psychological impact of childhood trauma and how to assist the healing process in communities. Emotiminds is a group, run by Beth, for caregivers and professionals who would like
to learn tools and best practices for psychological development and what we can do to increase emotional resilience within our families. Emotiminds will leave
you and your child with the coping skills you need to face life head-on with emotional resiliency. Join at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1224385311244520
More information about Beth can be found at https://www.choosingtherapy.com/beth-tyson/ and at https://www.bethtyson.com/
Contact Beth at: beth@bethtyson.com
Childhood Grief: When to Seek Additional Help - By HealthyChildren.org
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/Grieving-Whats-Normal-When-to-Worry.aspx
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/Grieving-Whats-Normal-When-to-Worry.aspx
How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings - By Beth Tyson, MA
www.bethtyson.com/post/how-to-talk-to-kids-about-school-shootings
www.bethtyson.com/post/how-to-talk-to-kids-about-school-shootings
The Impact of Mother Loss - By Beth Tyson, MA
https://www.bethtyson.com/post/the-impact-of-mother-loss
https://www.bethtyson.com/post/the-impact-of-mother-loss
Note: The website contains some affiliate links, which means that if you purchase something through one of these links we may receive a small commission
– at no extra cost to you. I only promote things I have have either personally tried or strongly believe are beneficial. Any commissions earned helps keep this
website going. Thank you for using our affiliate links to help My Grief Connection to continue helping grievers find help & hope.
Not responsible for the content, claims or representations of the linked sites, videos, movies, podcasts, groups, events, books, articles, etc.
This site provides links and general grief support information and is not intended to serve as or replace professional counseling, guidance or treatment.
If you are thinking about hurting yourself or someone else, please contact 911 or the suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
For any type of crisis situation you can text CONNECT to 741741 to chat with a Crisis Text Line counselor.
My Grief Connection - Created 04 July 2019
Updated 21 May 2022
– at no extra cost to you. I only promote things I have have either personally tried or strongly believe are beneficial. Any commissions earned helps keep this
website going. Thank you for using our affiliate links to help My Grief Connection to continue helping grievers find help & hope.
Not responsible for the content, claims or representations of the linked sites, videos, movies, podcasts, groups, events, books, articles, etc.
This site provides links and general grief support information and is not intended to serve as or replace professional counseling, guidance or treatment.
If you are thinking about hurting yourself or someone else, please contact 911 or the suicide hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
For any type of crisis situation you can text CONNECT to 741741 to chat with a Crisis Text Line counselor.
My Grief Connection - Created 04 July 2019
Updated 21 May 2022
© 2022 My Grief Connection