While adults are busy grieving the loss of a loved one it may be hard to help a child with their grieving as well. November is National Children & Teens’ Grief Awareness Month and The Children’s Grief Foundation of Canada wants to spread awareness of the programming available. Marissa Slaven, chair of the board, said as difficult as it is for adults to cope with bereavement it is even more challenging for children.
A lot of the times the adults children would feel the most comfortable confiding in are also grieving, making it tough for them to be available as support. Other children might not have the words or self expression to discuss what is bothering them. She said while there is programming available, it is often expensive to access.
The Board Chair also said they want to keep the conversation going all year round.
Locally, if you’re looking for services you are urged to contact a hospice or general practitioner, or connect with the foundation for help finding the best local provider. They provide education and connect individuals and organizations together to help get the best services available. To date, the program has impacted 764 children and their grieving families. If you’re looking to connect with the foundation you can email info@childrensgrieffoundation.org or visit their website at childrensgrieffoundation.org. Donations towards their program are accepted on their website.
Written by Ashley Taylor