Photo by Zhivko Minkov on Unsplash
Give them grace and gentle support as they begin the school year.
Narrated by Morrigan Crowe
It's that time of year — backpacks are packed, routines have returned, and classrooms are full of chatter! Back-to-school season can feel like a fresh start for many, but for kids and families navigating grief, this time of year often reawakens loss in unexpected ways.
Perhaps a parent is missing from the first-day photo, or a sibling is not at the bus stop, or there’s an empty chair at the open house — quiet absences, deeply felt. Grief and loss don’t wait for a convenient season, and they don’t clock out for school hours.
For children and teens, returning to school while grieving comes with many challenges. They may struggle to concentrate, feel isolated from classmates, or change their behavior. Their academic performance may suffer. Many children experience anxiety about being away from a surviving caregiver. Educators and caregivers often don’t know how to help, especially when students don't outwardly express their grief.
This is why, as we dive into the school year, it's important to lead with grace — for ourselves, for the children in our lives, and for one another. Whether you are navigating grief, or supporting someone who is grieving, remember:
Grief isn't linear. It shows up in waves, especially during milestones and transitions. Whether a student is grieving a death from last summer or from many years ago, new chapters can stir old emotions. It's okay if your child — or you — aren't moving at the same pace as others.
Grief looks different for everyone. Some kids cry. Some act out. Others seem ‘fine’ but may be struggling internally. There's no right or wrong way to grieve.
Check in often. Listen without trying to ‘fix’. Simply being present and validating emotions can go a long way in fostering a healthy relationship.
Celebrate small wins. Showing up for school, finishing an assignment, or making it through the day is a huge accomplishment!
Ask for help. You don't have to carry grief alone, and neither do your kids.
If you need support, we can help!
Tri-Cities Chaplaincy, understanding how crucial safe spaces are for processing these emotions, has created Cork's Place Kids Grief Center. The Center offers peer-based support groups for children and teens (ages 3 to 17) who are grieving the death of someone important. The groups utilize creative expression, play, and storytelling to help children feel understood and supported by a community.
Cork's Place isn't a therapy program — there's no pressure to ‘move on’ or ‘fix’ anything. Rather, it's a community where kids can say, "I’m hurt too!" and be met with kindness. The Center offers 5-week in-person group programs for those who are able to attend. For those who are unable to attend in-person sessions, there are grief care kits families can take home with hands-on activities and all necessary supplies provided.
Concurrent groups for parents and guardians help them understand how grief impacts their loved ones, and provide community for people who may find themselves isolated during a difficult time. Whether you're a parent, teacher, neighbor, or friend, your participation and understanding can help grieving children feel seen and acknowledged.
To learn more or refer someone you know to the programme, visit us at tccbestlife.org/corks-place or call (509) 783-7416 (Ext. 3006).
Cork’s Place Kids Grief Center equips children and adults with tools and resources for coping with grief so they can live their best lives. Instagram: @corksplacetcc
