GRIEF

A sample of books used to support student who are grieving.

HOWARD B. WIGGLEBOTTOM LISTENS TO A FRIEND by Howard Binkow and Taillefer Long

One of the best things about Howard B. Wigglebottom is that thanks to wedolisten.org you can get the animated book, lesson, and more all in one place. Before watching the stories, I have my students wiggle their bottoms and get their energy out. These books are perfect for grades K-1.

DOG HEAVEN AND CAT HEAVEN by Cynthia Rylant

Are you familiar with the Rainbow Bridge poem? These books bring the rainbow bridge to life.

Activity: I created a memory book for pets that you can get here.

THE GOODBYE BOOK by Todd Parr

881c36fb-a187-44c1-a2aa-e6197ec7abb8_image4 This beautiful picture book is funny and colorful, making it easy to talk about such a hard topic.

Activity: This book works to talk about all types of loss. After reading, create a memory book about the lost loved one or pet.

THE INVISIBLE STRING by Patrice Karst

This book is perfect for anyone who is missing someone they love- whether it be grief or just back to school. For anyone seeking assurance, this book has the message that love transcends and will always be there even when there is distance between us.

Activity: Partner with this worksheet on TPT.

SAMANTHA JANE’S MISSING SMILE: A STORY ABOUT COPING WITH THE LOSS OF A PARENT by Julie Kaplow

This book tackles the difficult subject of losing a parent. “The story of a young girl whose father has recently died, which deals with the full range of emotions, questions, and worries that children have when a parent has died. Offers ways to remember and honor the lost parent, encourages the open sharing of feelings, and helps children understand that their parents want them to be happy and live their lives fully.”- Goodreads.com