As part of the partnership, the NACG has provided a resource toolkit for professionals and families. We encourage you to browse through and view the components of the toolkit below. Refer to them as needed, and share with the families you serve.

This resource was created for those supporting a child who is grieving a substance-use related death. In three sections, this toolkit gives information relevant to family members or caregivers, information for community members, and a resource list for those seeking additional information.

Download the Toolkit.

The death of a family member, friend or other significant person is a lifelong loss for children. It is normal for children to miss the person who died and to experience grief that might come and go with different levels of intensity for some time after the death. It can be challenging to parents and caregivers to know what to do for, what to say to and how to help children who are obviously hurting. Here are a few suggestions about how to be helpful to a child who is grieving based on research and practice among children’s grief support professionals and volunteers. It is important to note that grief reactions in children are varied, wide ranging and unique to each individual. The following suggestions will help guide you as you seek to be provide understanding and compassion to children.

Download the About Childhood Grief toolkit.

Developmental Understandings

The “Developmental Understandings” resource offers insights into how different age groups process and understand death and dying. It provides guidance on how to approach these topics in ways that are age-appropriate and supportive. By understanding the developmental response to death, we can better help children navigate the complex emotions and questions that arise during following a death. 

Download the Developmental Understandings Toolkit.

Children’s Grief Awareness Month serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and supporting grieving children and their families. In recognition of Children’s Grief Awareness Month this November, the National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG) is coming together with its dedicated partners to “flip the script” on grief. What is Flip the Script? Flipping the Script references a shift in perspective or a change in the way a situation is typically handled. When someone “flips the script,” they are taking a different approach, and this November, we will work together to flip common grief scripts honoring Children’s Grief Awareness Month. We know that many of the traditional expressions of sympathy can be unhelpful or even hurtful to grievers. Join us as we inform, encourage, and support individuals in this journey. Learn more: https://nacg.org/flipthescript/

The death of a child is contrary to what most of us expect in life. We typically expect to outlive our children and for them to be alive through our grandchildren’s youth. These expectations cause many to view grandparents as the “out of natural order grievers”. Many people typically focus on the deceased’s partner and/or children as being the most impacted by the death. Just as children and teens have unique considerations while grieving, so do grandparents as they may be taking on new responsibilities while also managing their own physical and health limitations.

Download the Toolkit.

Grief is an intricate collection of emotions that can weave through the fabric of our lives. While grief is often associated with adulthood, it is important to acknowledge the presence of grief within the hearts of children. End of life memorials and rituals can be difficult for a child to fully understand or participate in, but there are ways to aid them through this process.

Download Children and End of Life Memorials/Rituals for more.

Attending a funeral can be a profoundly challenging and emotionally charged experience for people of all ages. However, when it comes to children, the weight of grief and the unfamiliarity of funeral homes can make the process even more overwhelming. Therefore, it is crucial to create a safe and supportive environment for children within funeral homes.

Download Creating Space for Children in a Funeral Home for more.

Telling a child that someone in their life has died is a painful task we all hope we never have to deal with. Unfortunately, as death is a part of life, families who are being served by your funeral home will find themselves in this role. As with any challenging conversation, this presents opportunities to deliver the news in a way that strengthens their relationship with the child and leaves them feeling safe, secure, and nurtured.  Consider sharing this resource with any family who needs support in telling a child someone has died.