Some good ideas

I got this from a video from Brianna's Art Therapist. She had her first group session last night and it went well. It was amazing at the amount of grief that filled a small room at Sutter. Brianna is the only child in her group that has lost a sibling. My heart aches for the 3 families that lost their dads. One of the families had a very young infant. I can only imagine what that would be like for the wife and her children. I am looking forward to the next 5 months that Brianna will be with this group.

Here's some ideas that I got from a video they gave us. It's from Sesame Street. They have a ton of stuff on grief. Just thought I'd share.

Sharing Memories and Moving Forward

At some point you may notice that you and your family are taking “grief breaks,” or moments when you forget your sadness. Slowly, a new family story will begin to emerge through your family’s ups and downs. Give yourself and your children permission to feel happy again. Be assured that the memory of your loved one can live on in the hearts of your family. Celebrating your loved one’s life and important place in the family can be a meaningful way to begin to move forward. Here are a few ideas:

•Plan with your child a smaller memorial gathering for close friends and family. Allow everyone to share memories and stories. It’s OK to share funny memories and laughter, too!

•Listen to or sing a favorite song or eat a favorite meal dedicated to the memory of your loved one.

•Gather pictures, clothes, or favorite things of your loved one. Then take turns telling stories or writing about each item to remind all of you of the good times you shared. You could also record stories on your video camera or cell phone. Try downloading the “Memory Chain” and, as family, create a handmade remembrance of your loved one.