Activities to Help Children Cope

Memory-building activities help children maintain a connection to their loved one and provide a tangible way to honor their memory.

Memory Boxes: 

Create a special box where children can store keepsakes like photos, letters, or mementos that remind them of their loved one.

• Example: Decorate a shoebox together and fill it with items like a favorite scarf, ticket stubs from shared experiences, or handwritten notes.

Photo Albums or Scrapbooks: 

Help children compile a collection of photos and captions that highlight favorite moments.

• Example: Add a page with space for them to write a “thank you” note to their loved one for the memories they shared.

Memory Jar:

Encourage family members to write down their favorite memories on slips of paper, which can be read together on special occasions.

• Example: Pull out a memory during birthdays or holidays to keep the loved one’s presence alive. Mindfulness exercises tailored for children.

Mindfulness exercises tailored for children

Deep Breathing Exercises:

 Teach children simple breathing techniques to calm their minds.

• Example: Use the “hot cocoa breathing” method: pretend to hold a cup of hot cocoa, breathe in deeply to smell it, and blow gently to cool it down.

Guided Imagery: 

Help them visualize a safe, happy place where they can feel comforted.

• Example: Guide them to imagine being in a peaceful meadow or a favorite family spot while you describe the sights, sounds, and smells.

Gratitude Journals: 

Encourage them to write down one thing they are grateful for each day, helping them focus on positive aspects of their life.

Yoga or Movement:

 Simple stretches or yoga poses can help them release pent-up energy and reduce stress.

• Example: “Pretend Tree Pose” (balancing on one foot with arms up) can make mindfulness fun and engaging.