Resources & Guides for When Things Pass Away
Welcome to the resources for When Things Pass Away. This page is designed to help parents and caregivers facilitate conversations with children about grief, loss, and acceptance. Through thoughtful questions and creative activities, this guide aims to make these important conversations easier and more meaningful.
Before starting, please remember: grief is a unique journey for each child. Be patient, open, and supportive throughout.​
How to Use This Resource
This guide provides helpful tips and resources for engaging with your child during this difficult time. Here are some key points to follow:
Create a Safe Space
Let your child know it's okay to experience a range of emotions like sadness or confusion.
Read Together
Read aloud, and encourage pauses for reflection or emotional response
Use the Questions Thoughtfully
Refer to the questions section to facilitate open-ended conversations.
Engage in Creative Activities
Use art, memory exercises, and mindfulness practices to express emotions.
Be Present
Grief looks different for every child—offer your presence and support, even without words.
Follow Their Lead
Let your child guide, answer honestly with age-appropriate language, and admit when you don’t know.
Seek Support When Needed
If emotions are overwhelming, consider seeking professional grief support.
Discussion Questions
Use these questions to spark open-ended conversations and help your child express their thoughts and emotions:
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How does the concept of things passing away relate to death or dying?
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Have you ever experienced death or loss? If so, how did you deal with it?
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Do you believe your approach to dealing with death or loss was effective? Why or why not?
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What have you learned from your experiences with death or loss?
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What are more effective ways to handle loss?
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What emotions arise when you think about death or dying?
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What can you share with others regarding death, dying, or loss?
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How does the theme of growing up relate to the concept of things passing away?
Deeper Discussion
1. How does the adage of love and letting go relate to the theme of things passing away?
Feel free to pause and let your child take their time with these questions—silence is often part of the healing process.
Downloadable PDFs
Access helpful PDFs for further guidance and support. Click below to download: