Abstract

Loss is a universal experience of change that begins at birth and continues throughout life. Loss, of any kind, can have a profound effect on children. This book describes the commonalities shared among those who have survived childhood bereavement and also highlights the ways in which each individual's loss is unique. After defining the five stages of grief, the author develops a framework for understanding grief as a process that children experience in response to different types of loss. With a focus on death, divorce, and childhood illness, this study also explores the cultural and religious aspects of the grieving process. As educators are critical sources of support for grieving children, this book empowers educators to recognize significant symptoms of grief and provides curricular strategies for acknowledging death and loss. Finally, the author suggests appropriate ways to discuss death with children and provides a section of therapeutic play experiences for educators to implement in their practice.