Bereavement Professional

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Thank you, Karen. Does anyone have a calendar of these events that can be published for 2024?

Veronica M. Ibarra, MS, FT, BCC

Bereavement Coordinator

Presbyterian Home Health, Hospice, and Palliative Care

Albuquerque, NM

Bereavement Services: 505-559-7055

Cell: 505-377-1601

Hospice Main: 505-559-1000

To keep a lamp burning we have to keep putting oil in it. - Mother Teresa

The important thing is that, like a lamp that needs oil, we, too, need to keep

our sources of healing and energy fed. -- Martha Whitmore Hickman

 

*-*-*- Presbyterian_Healthcare_Services_DISCLAIMER -*-*-* This message originates from Presbyterian Healthcare Services or one of its affiliated organizations. It contains information, which may be confidential or privileged, and is intended only for the individual or entity named above. It is prohibited for anyone else to disclose, copy, distribute or use the contents of this message. All personal messages express views solely of the sender, which are not to be attributed to Presbyterian Healthcare Services or any of its affiliated organizations, and may not be distributed without this disclaimer. If you received this message in error, please notify us immediately at info@phs.org If you would like more information about Presbyterian Healthcare Services please visit our web site http://www.phs.org

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Veronica,

NHPCO releases a calendar with observed days every year. Here is the link https://www.nhpco.org/resources/community-outreach-tools/community-outreach-tools-health-observance-dates/

I always add these dates to my calendar as a reminder. Hope this helps! :)

Thank you, Karen. Does anyone have a calendar of these events that can be published for 2024?

Veronica M. Ibarra, MS, FT, BCC

Bereavement Coordinator

Presbyterian Home Health, Hospice, and Palliative Care

Albuquerque, NM

Bereavement Services: 505-559-7055

Cell: 505-377-1601

Hospice Main: 505-559-1000

To keep a lamp burning we have to keep putting oil in it. - Mother Teresa

The important thing is that, like a lamp that needs oil, we, too, need to keep

our sources of healing and energy fed. -- Martha Whitmore Hickman

 

*-*-*- Presbyterian_Healthcare_Services_DISCLAIMER -*-*-* This message originates from Presbyterian Healthcare Services or one of its affiliated organizations. It contains information, which may be confidential or privileged, and is intended only for the individual or entity named above. It is prohibited for anyone else to disclose, copy, distribute or use the contents of this message. All personal messages express views solely of the sender, which are not to be attributed to Presbyterian Healthcare Services or any of its affiliated organizations, and may not be distributed without this disclaimer. If you received this message in error, please notify us immediately at info@phs.org If you would like more information about Presbyterian Healthcare Services please visit our web site http://www.phs.org

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Veronica,

NHPCO releases a calendar with observed days every year. Here is the link https://www.nhpco.org/resources/community-outreach-tools/community-outreach-tools-health-observance-dates/

I always add these dates to my calendar as a reminder. Hope this helps! :)

Thank you, Karen. Does anyone have a calendar of these events that can be published for 2024?

Veronica M. Ibarra, MS, FT, BCC

Bereavement Coordinator

Presbyterian Home Health, Hospice, and Palliative Care

Albuquerque, NM

Bereavement Services: 505-559-7055

Cell: 505-377-1601

Hospice Main: 505-559-1000

To keep a lamp burning we have to keep putting oil in it. - Mother Teresa

The important thing is that, like a lamp that needs oil, we, too, need to keep

our sources of healing and energy fed. -- Martha Whitmore Hickman

 

*-*-*- Presbyterian_Healthcare_Services_DISCLAIMER -*-*-* This message originates from Presbyterian Healthcare Services or one of its affiliated organizations. It contains information, which may be confidential or privileged, and is intended only for the individual or entity named above. It is prohibited for anyone else to disclose, copy, distribute or use the contents of this message. All personal messages express views solely of the sender, which are not to be attributed to Presbyterian Healthcare Services or any of its affiliated organizations, and may not be distributed without this disclaimer. If you received this message in error, please notify us immediately at info@phs.org If you would like more information about Presbyterian Healthcare Services please visit our web site http://www.phs.org

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

and these are part of anticipatory grief support? Are they delivered by any member of the IDT or a volunteer?

Veronica M. Ibarra, MS, FT, BCC

Bereavement Coordinator

Presbyterian Home Health, Hospice, and Palliative Care

Albuquerque, NM

Bereavement Services: 505-559-7055

Cell: 505-377-1601

Hospice Main: 505-559-1000

To keep a lamp burning we have to keep putting oil in it. - Mother Teresa

The important thing is that, like a lamp that needs oil, we, too, need to keep

our sources of healing and energy fed. -- Martha Whitmore Hickman

 

*-*-*- Presbyterian_Healthcare_Services_DISCLAIMER -*-*-* This message originates from Presbyterian Healthcare Services or one of its affiliated organizations. It contains information, which may be confidential or privileged, and is intended only for the individual or entity named above. It is prohibited for anyone else to disclose, copy, distribute or use the contents of this message. All personal messages express views solely of the sender, which are not to be attributed to Presbyterian Healthcare Services or any of its affiliated organizations, and may not be distributed without this disclaimer. If you received this message in error, please notify us immediately at info@phs.org If you would like more information about Presbyterian Healthcare Services please visit our web site http://www.phs.org

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

They are part of anticipatory grief support but not all part of the kit may be used prior to the death of the family member. That is decided by the family. Only members of the team/volunteers that are trained can deliver these. Usually, BC, Social Worker, Chaplain/Spiritual Care team. But we have a volunteer that is going to be part of this team as he is trained and has experience. These are not just dropped off, there is a conversation that goes with this. It is a new process and we are still learning. 

and these are part of anticipatory grief support? Are they delivered by any member of the IDT or a volunteer?

Veronica M. Ibarra, MS, FT, BCC

Bereavement Coordinator

Presbyterian Home Health, Hospice, and Palliative Care

Albuquerque, NM

Bereavement Services: 505-559-7055

Cell: 505-377-1601

Hospice Main: 505-559-1000

To keep a lamp burning we have to keep putting oil in it. - Mother Teresa

The important thing is that, like a lamp that needs oil, we, too, need to keep

our sources of healing and energy fed. -- Martha Whitmore Hickman

 

*-*-*- Presbyterian_Healthcare_Services_DISCLAIMER -*-*-* This message originates from Presbyterian Healthcare Services or one of its affiliated organizations. It contains information, which may be confidential or privileged, and is intended only for the individual or entity named above. It is prohibited for anyone else to disclose, copy, distribute or use the contents of this message. All personal messages express views solely of the sender, which are not to be attributed to Presbyterian Healthcare Services or any of its affiliated organizations, and may not be distributed without this disclaimer. If you received this message in error, please notify us immediately at info@phs.org If you would like more information about Presbyterian Healthcare Services please visit our web site http://www.phs.org

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Scott, this sounds like a great resource. I hope you share your resources once they are developed. We also use Lifetimes to assist families with talking with the children.

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

I recently obtained a new book that I think is FABULOUS for children  It is called "One Wave at a Time."

In honor of National Children's Grief Awareness Day, I distributed the attached list of books I would recommend.  It also includes books for adults that are working with a child/children dealing with grief.

I would love to hear thoughts and recommendations for this list.

Thank you,

Sherri Razo

Scott, this sounds like a great resource. I hope you share your resources once they are developed. We also use Lifetimes to assist families with talking with the children.

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

I recently obtained a new book that I think is FABULOUS for children  It is called "One Wave at a Time."

In honor of National Children's Grief Awareness Day, I distributed the attached list of books I would recommend.  It also includes books for adults that are working with a child/children dealing with grief.

I would love to hear thoughts and recommendations for this list.

Thank you,

Sherri Razo

Scott, this sounds like a great resource. I hope you share your resources once they are developed. We also use Lifetimes to assist families with talking with the children.

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

I recently obtained a new book that I think is FABULOUS for children  It is called "One Wave at a Time."

In honor of National Children's Grief Awareness Day, I distributed the attached list of books I would recommend.  It also includes books for adults that are working with a child/children dealing with grief.

I would love to hear thoughts and recommendations for this list.

Thank you,

Sherri Razo

Scott, this sounds like a great resource. I hope you share your resources once they are developed. We also use Lifetimes to assist families with talking with the children.

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

I recently obtained a new book that I think is FABULOUS for children  It is called "One Wave at a Time."

In honor of National Children's Grief Awareness Day, I distributed the attached list of books I would recommend.  It also includes books for adults that are working with a child/children dealing with grief.

I would love to hear thoughts and recommendations for this list.

Thank you,

Sherri Razo

Scott, this sounds like a great resource. I hope you share your resources once they are developed. We also use Lifetimes to assist families with talking with the children.

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

I recently obtained a new book that I think is FABULOUS for children  It is called "One Wave at a Time."

In honor of National Children's Grief Awareness Day, I distributed the attached list of books I would recommend.  It also includes books for adults that are working with a child/children dealing with grief.

I would love to hear thoughts and recommendations for this list.

Thank you,

Sherri Razo

Scott, this sounds like a great resource. I hope you share your resources once they are developed. We also use Lifetimes to assist families with talking with the children.

Karen,

Thank you for initiating this thread it is definitely of interest to me. My hospice was in need of an upgrade to our process and resources for children. Before I arrived they provided good support but there was nothing setup so every time something was needed it necessitated collaboration before resources were rounded up and a plan was put in place. 

One of the things that we decided was to put together a resource kit. It includes a few books (the invisible string, I agree Sherri- it is a great book, the memory box, the  memory book- a grief journal for kids), a box -to be used as their memory box, decorating items to get them started on the box, and a few resources for parents that I am still working on finalizing. Currently I am using material by Guideline publications (talking to children about death & answers to a child's questions about death) but my plan is to write my own materials for this portion. We have one of our staff deliver the resources all in a nice bag and educate the adults on the contents to further assess needs and where they would like us to be involved. 

I would love to hear from others what resources you use for helping equip parents/family member's as they talk to their children.

Blessings on the Journey

Scott

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------

   There are 2 resources we provide to IDT staff to share with families who have children in the home. Adults also enjoy these activities.

 !. Provide a plain white pillow case and several colors of fabric markers for children to decorate with drawings and messages for the patient. It is a meaningful gift for the patient as well as a treasured keepsake after the death.

2. Create a fingerprint tree. We printed a bare tree on cardstock and provide an inkpad with it. Family members and the patient can all add their fingerprints to the "Family Tree."  It's very helpful to children to see who is all around them to provide support, even as a beloved family member is dying.

Children's Grief Awareness Day is Thursday, November 16, 2023.

The work that we as grief professionals have done in the last few decades has brought tremendous awareness to the uniqueness and challenges of childhood grief. Even though education and programs have reduced the tendency to "forget or overlook" their grief, there is still much work to be done. Thank you for all your efforts, it is not in vain. The education, support, and emotional guidance you provide for the children and those that love them is life changing.

How do you support children within your community? We would love to hear about some of your unique services. Or is there a favorite book/s that you provide to your families?

We offer a 1-day Grief Camp in our communities, provide anticipatory counseling to the families of our patients, offer resources to the community at large, and provide topic specific books/grief materials. One of our Detroit Lions players, Frank Ragnow, offers grief support outings for children and invites local families to participate.

JUNGLE JOURNEY: GRIEVING AND REMEMBERING ELEANOR THE ELEPHANT is one of my favorite reads.

------------------------------
Karen Monts
Director, Grief Support Services & Practice Manager, Counseling Services
NHPCO Bereavement Steering Committee
Northstar Care Community
------------------------------