The start of a new school year can be exciting, but for students who have recently lost a parent, sibling or caregiver, returning to the classroom can be especially difficult.
Springfield’s Lost & Found Grief Center says about one in 10 Missouri children will experience the death of a caregiver or sibling before turning 18.
The organization is encouraging teachers and school staff to give grieving students room to talk about their loss instead of avoiding the subject.
Assistant Executive Director Melanie Blair says adults often want to find the perfect words to make a child feel better, but those words don’t really exist. Instead, she says one of the most helpful things adults can do is simply listen without judgment.
Lost & Found also reminds educators that every child grieves differently. Students should be encouraged to find healthy ways to work through their emotions, including writing, art, exercise or music.
The Springfield-based organization has provided grief support since 2000 and offers free therapeutic support groups for children, young adults and families across 25 southwest Missouri counties.
Families and educators looking for additional help can contact Lost & Found Grief Center at 417-865-9998 or visit the organization’s website.
(Photo provided by Lost & Found Grief Center)