For schools
Programs and resources to support school communities and grieving students
Whether children are exposed to a singular loss of a family member, peer or teacher, or the entire school is witness to a national tragedy, schools are ideally positioned to partner with families and communities to support children during these difficult times.
Teachers can be among the strongest advocates for bereaved students and families, and schools can serve as a safe space for students. As the first line of defense, educators see children each day in a consistent and structured environment. They are a critical element facilitating healing from grief after a death.
Tools for Educators and All School Personnel
- Coalition to Support to Grieving Students
- Grief-Sensitive Schools Initiative
- Grieftalk Schools Resource Guide for Administrators
- How educators can help support grieving students over the holidays
- Guidelines for responding to the death of a student or school staff
- Helping Youth after Community Trauma: Tips for Educators
- NACG All Abilities Activities
- Talking to children about terrorist attacks and school and community shootings in the news
Free Digital Resources
Alliance for Young Artists and Writers
Recognizing that a creative outlet can provide a safe space to teens who are trying to cope with the death of a loved one, the Foundation in partnership with the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers created the New York Life Award to recognize students in grades 7-12 who have explored grief or loss in their original works of art or writing.
Additional resources