Grief is difficult at any age, but for children, it can be especially confusing. They may struggle to understand loss or feel emotions they can’t fully express. That’s where storytelling comes in. Books have a unique way of helping children process their feelings, offering comfort, guidance, and reassurance when words alone may not be enough.
Why Stories Matter in Times of Grief
Stories create a safe space for children to explore difficult emotions. When they see a character experiencing sadness, fear, or confusion, they feel less alone. Books also provide gentle explanations about death and loss, helping kids make sense of what has happened in a way that feels approachable.
Books That Help Children Understand Grief
If you're looking for ways to help a grieving child, these books can be a valuable tool:
- The Invisible String by Patrice Karst – A heartwarming story about the unbreakable bonds we share with loved ones, even when they are gone.
- Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children by Bryan Mellonie – A gentle explanation of the life cycle that helps children understand death as a natural part of life.
- Tear Soup by Pat Schwiebert – A touching story about grief that helps children (and adults) understand that everyone mourns in their own way.
- The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland – A story that encourages children to keep memories of their loved ones alive in meaningful ways.
How to Use Books to Support a Grieving Child
Reading a book together is just the beginning. Here are some ways to make storytelling a meaningful tool for healing:
- Let Them Lead the Conversation – Ask open-ended questions like, “How do you think the character is feeling?” or “What would you say to them if you could?”
- Validate Their Feelings – If a child relates to a character’s sadness, let them know that it’s okay to feel that way. Remind them that grief looks different for everyone.
- Encourage Storytelling of Their Own – Sometimes, writing or drawing their own story about a loved one can help a child process their emotions.
Stories Help Us Heal
Books remind children that they are not alone in their grief. They offer hope, understanding, and a way to express emotions that may feel too big to say out loud. By sharing these stories, we help kids find comfort and reassurance during life’s hardest moments.
At Jurni, we're working to bring these themes of grief, healing, and hope to life through an animated short film inspired by our story. If you’d like to support this project, please visit our Kickstarter campaign or learn more on the Jurni website. Together, we can create something meaningful for families navigating their own journeys.