Kids' Helpful Guide: When a Loved One Dies by Suicide

GIFTS Lessons in Loss Series
Created by Deborah Brown, Headteacher and Advanced Grief Recovery Method Specialist

This 120+ page journal is packed with tailor-made activities designed to help children aged 7-11 manage the loss of a loved one to suicide. It offers a creative and supportive space for children to process their feelings.

An accompanying an Adult Support Guide, providing support for the adult who may work with the child is also available to purchase. This guide offers insights and advice to help adults facilitate the child's use of the journal and provide additional emotional support.

This journal is a companion in a difficult time, offering tools to help children find their way through grief in a way that suits them best.

Journal Sections:

1. Feelings and Emotions: This section enables children to write about their emotions during such a difficult time.
2. Talking and Memories: This section encourages children to reflect on their relationship with their loved one who has died by suicide.
3. Reactions and Change: This section helps children understand how their actions affect others and how change can trigger various emotional responses.
4. Love and Self-care: This section educates children on the importance of looking after themselves during grief. It emphasises that it's okay to spend time with friends and family, pursue hobbies, and practise self-care.

The journal features many unique illustrations that can be coloured in, allowing children to personalise their journal and express their emotions creatively.

While the activities are arranged in a thoughtful sequence, children are free to navigate the journal in any order that feels right for them. Each child's grief journey is unique, and the journal is designed to accommodate that.