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The Best Grief Activities for Kids Ages 4-12

Child grief activities are critical for helping children ages 4–12 express emotions safely and effectively. Activities like memory boxes, art projects, journaling, and role-play encourage healthy emotional expression. Using therapeutic books like The Terrible, Super Sad Day alongside these activities provides a structured way to explore complex feelings.

Recommended Activities:

  • Drawing or painting memories of the loved one

  • Creating a memory box with keepsakes

  • Journaling feelings and experiences

  • Reading The Terrible, Super Sad Day together and discussing the story

Children grieve behaviorally more than verbally. Engaging in activities allows children to process loss in ways suited to their developmental stage, improving emotional regulation. Combining child grief activities with therapeutic reading reinforces coping skills and helps children feel supported and understood.

Tips for Parents:

  • Validate emotions and provide reassurance.

  • Encourage participation in grief activities without pressure.

  • Use The Terrible, Super Sad Day as a conversation starter to guide discussion.

  • Monitor for signs that grief may need professional support.

Call 210.705.1749 to connect with a therapist, or visit https://www.anscounseling.com/shop to purchase The Terrible, Super Sad Day as a therapeutic tool for healing.