When a child experiences the death of someone close to them, it can be hard for them to put feelings into words. Instead, grief often shows up through behavior—clinginess, anger, withdrawal, or even moments of laughter. That’s why grief activities designed for children can be so powerful. They offer a safe, developmentally appropriate way for children to process emotions, express what they’re feeling, and begin to heal.
Whether the loss involves a parent, grandparent, sibling, or pet, these activities help children externalize emotions, develop emotional literacy, and maintain a meaningful connection to the person who died.
Creative Expression Activities
Drawing and Art-Making
Children may find it easier to show what they feel rather than say it. Invite them to: Draw what they miss about the person, Illustrate a favorite memory, Create a "grief creature" or give their feelings a color or shape. For some children, adding labels, names, or speech bubbles can help give voice to their emotions.
Journaling and Letter Writing
Older children may enjoy: Writing goodbye letters, Keeping a grief journal, Recording dreams or daily thoughts about the person who died
Younger children can dictate their stories to a trusted adult or draw instead of write.
Music and Movement
Grief can be expressed through rhythm and movement. Consider activities like: Dancing to a song that reminds them of the person, Singing a shared favorite song, Making simple instruments and using rhythm to express emotion
Connection and Memory Projects
Memory Jar
Have the child write down (or dictate) memories, kind messages, or things they miss, and place them in a decorated jar. These can be read on special days or whenever the child feels sad or reflective.
Time Capsule
Gather drawings, small items, letters, or photos that remind them of the person. Seal them in a box and agree on a future date to open it—this can provide both closure and ongoing connection.
Nature-Based Memorials
Plant a flower, tree, or small garden in memory of the person.
Collect items from a nature walk and create a memory collage or “fairy garden.”
Physical Activities for Emotional Release
Some children need movement or sensory play to work through big emotions.
Bubble Wrap or Pillow Play
Let children stomp on bubble wrap or punch a soft pillow to release frustration or sadness in a safe way.
Tear Paper or Rip Old Magazines
This can be both satisfying and symbolic—especially if followed by a calming activity afterward.
Movement Games
Try mirroring games, stretching or yoga, or scavenger hunts (e.g., “Find something that reminds you of ___”).
Supporting Grief Through Storytelling
Reading books together creates a familiar, calming space for children to explore difficult feelings.
One powerful resource is The Terrible, Super Sad Day by Vanessa Valles, LCSW-S.
This story helps children: Understand loss through clear and honest language, Recognize different emotional reactions to grief, Feel validated in their sadness, anger, or confusion
After reading, ask gentle questions like: “Which part felt like your story?” Or “Did any character feel the way you do?” These conversations can be a natural starting point for deeper emotional exploration.
Gentle Guidance for Caregivers
Let grief come in waves. Children may circle back to their feelings days or weeks later.
Validate their emotions—even if they don’t make sense to you.
Know that play is grief, too. Children often process big emotions through imagination and pretend play.
Share your own grief in a gentle, reassuring way. Saying “I’m sad, too, and I miss them” can help children feel less alone.
Looking for a Way to Start the Conversation?
The Terrible, Super Sad Day is a thoughtful tool designed specifically to help caregivers open up conversations about loss with young children.
It supports:
Therapeutic grief activities
Emotional validation
Ongoing healing through connection and storytelling
You can order your copy here.
Final Thoughts
Helping a child navigate grief doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means showing up with compassion, patience, and creative tools that make space for healing. These activities are more than just tasks; they’re invitations for connection, reflection, and love.