For Young Children
Losing someone we love is a deeply painful experience, and it’s important to remember that grief affects everyone differently, especially children. These simple activities offer gentle ways to explore those big feelings, find comfort in creativity, and navigate this difficult time together.
1. Box Breathing
Take a Deep Breath
When things feel really hard, taking a deep breath can help. Imagine drawing a box in the air with your finger, and breathing along with each line. This helps our bodies and our minds feel a little calmer.
2. “Feelings” Playdough
Squish & Squeeze Your Feelings
Grab some colorful playdough and let those feelings out! Choose a color that matches how you feel, then squish, squeeze, and shape it until it feels a little better. This is a fun way to get your feelings out of your head and into your hands.
3. Memory Drawings
Remember Happy Moments
When we feel sad, it can be comforting to remember happy times. Draw a picture of a favorite memory with the person who died. It’s a way to hold onto those special moments and feel close to them again.
4. Dance Party
Move Through Emotions
Did you know that your body can help you understand your feelings? When you’re grieving, you might feel tense, restless, or full of energy. Moving your body – through dance (or exercise, or even a quiet walk) – can help you release those feelings and find some peace.
For Families
5. Memory Box
Hold Special Memories Together
Building a memory box is a special way to remember someone you love. As a family, choose things that bring a smile to your face – photos, drawings, or little treasures. It becomes a shared place to keep those memories alive and feel close to the person who died.
6. Letter Ceremony
Share Your Words
Writing a letter to someone who has died can be a powerful way to express feelings that might be hard to speak aloud. It’s a chance to say the things you wish you could say in person, share your memories, and find comfort in writing down your thoughts and emotions.
Finding Comfort and Support Together
Losing a loved one is a difficult experience, but these activities can help grieving families find ways to heal and grow together. For more support and guidance, explore “I’m Small, but I Lost Someone Big” and our dedicated Resources page, filled with helpful tools and compassionate advice.
