This book offers a structure and an outlet for the many difficult feelings which inevitably follow when someone dies. It aims to help children make sense of their experience by reflecting on the different aspects of their grief, whilst finding a balance between remembering and having fun. This book is a useful companion in the present, and will become an invaluable keepsake in the years to come. Side by Side is a group that runs for 3-4 weeks. It is suitable for Children/young people aged 6-10 and their families. It is for those having difficulty in family/peer relationships, emotional skills and social skills. It can be used where there has been a significant event such as a bereavement loss or trauma and is based on the five ways to wellbeing. There are separate children, young people and adult groups that run simultaneously, then there is a family session which joins the children, young people and adults together. Stories and words have therapeutic potential. They can strengthen us, help to reframe things, and help make meaning. This book offers story medicine for children, families and communities at times of grieving, loss and separation. You look like you are feeling cross, is that right?” Activities to help children express their feelings The death of a parent or sibling is a devastating experience for any child and often adults don’t know what to say or how to support them. If your child is under five then this can be even more difficult because they might not understand what has happened or be able to express their feelings. The expert team at Winston’s Wish offers their advice on how to tell a very young child that someone has died, how to help them express their feelings and whether they should attend the funeral. Should I tell a young child about the death of a parent or sibling?

Winston’s Wish: Information, books and resources for helping children with bereavement, including information and support on how to deal with current difficult issues, such as not being able to attend funerals.If a child is going to attend a funeral, then they need to be prepared for what to expect. So, spend some time talking to them about what they might see or hear, and explain things like a burial or cremation. For example you could say:

There are some children’s books which some families, carers and professionals have found helpful to support young children who are grieving. Girls Talk is a group that runs for 8 weeks it is suitable for children age 9-11 to provide factual information and guidance on issues around growing up. Parenting is often seen as a skill which is instinctive and does not need to be learned. However, many parents and guardians can benefit enormously from learning child-sensitive techniques which help them reflect on their parenting. Here is a unique toolkit for parents and guardians who wish to give their children the best start in life.

We provide a range of group work support which can be;

Losing someone close to us is never easy. But what do we do when someone passes away due to a virus that we don’t really understand? What do we do when we are not able to comfort each other as usual, or even attend funerals to say goodbye?