Coping With Big Feelings
Encourage kids to talk with grown-ups when they feel sad.
Watch this video together, then talk about the big feelings, like sadness and anger, that Elmo and Jesse have about Uncle Jack dying. Let children know that it’s okay to feel lots of different feelings, and that these feelings may come and go.
Many little ones don’t yet have words to express their feelings. This can be frustrating and cause them to act out. Pictures can be great tools to help children learn words that describe emotions. Make a “feeling faces” collage together. Look through magazines and cut out pictures of people with various expressions: happy, confused, worried, joyful, angry, proud, disappointed, excited, and so on. Glue the pictures to a large sheet of paper and label each. When children are having trouble expressing their feelings, invite them to point to a face that shows how they are feeling. Talk together about how they’re feeling and why.
New Family Roles
Ideas to help families navigate changes after loss.
Growing as We Grieve
Parents and caregivers, reflect on your own experience of grief and hear what has helped other families cope, thrive, and find joy.
The Giggle Game
Play this game to help children (and grown-ups) hone in on the good things in life.
You Are Special To Me
A printable to share encouragement and kindness with others.
Express Yourself with Elmo and Jesse
Help a child check in with and express their feelings with these interactive creative activities.
Growing as They Grieve
A special guide for providers supporting children who are grieving.
Supporting Grieving Native American Children and Families
Learn ways to support Native American children and families who are grieving with compassion and cultural humility.
