A Kids Grief Journal: When Someone I Care About, Dies

When Someone I Care About, Dies: Grief Journal

In response to our brief social story on supporting a grieving student, we were asked if we had a more in-depth resource for our grieving kids - and, after a lot of thought, work and care, we finally have published a comprehensive grief journal!

This 43-page comprehensive journal is meant to act as a guide to assist children and youth through their grief journey. It is intended to answer some of children’s questions about death, and provide information about death and dying, and the feelings we may experience when someone we care about, dies.

Some examples of topics/questions covered include:

• Why do people die?

• Who is in our Circle of Support?

• What is the Life Cycle?

• Will the person come back?

• What happens at a funeral?

• Where does the person go?

• Are my feelings normal?

• Who can I talk to?

• What happens in our bodies when we grieve?

• What can make me feel better?

• Will I feel happy again?

• What are some self-care activities I can do?

• What happens over time?

• Grief glossary - what are some words I may hear when a person dies?

• Self-expression page

The journal helps children to normalize the grief experience, and guides them through important topics and feelings related to the loss of a loved one.

The journal is in PDF (8.5" x 11") format, and so is easily printable and may be laminated and put in a binder or folder. It uses developmentally appropriate language, and engaging visuals.

It is presented as a social story, but also in a workbook-like format, where the child can contribute their own answers and fill in information that helps them to engage in and reflect on their grief experience. The intention is to work through the journal alongside a trusted adult, so they may be adequately listened to and supported.

As always, please leave your feedback and review so that we may continue to provide practical resources to our fellow educators. And, please follow our page so you may receive new and up to date materials. Thank you!