1 in 13 children in the US will experience the death of a parent or sibling by the time they turn 18 years old. It is estimated that 5.6 million children will be bereaved by age 18 and that number more than doubles to 13.9 million by age 25. 

Teachers and counselors have not received the appropriate education in college or graduate school to confidently and competently work with grieving children. Research states that only 7% of teachers have had training in grief and loss. If you work with children, you will encounter a grieving child and it is imperative that you are grief informed and know best how to support these children.  

Many children aren't able to grieve at home with their family, which makes them express their feelings at school, where they feel safe.  Teachers often report not feeling confident talking to children about grief and they struggle with what their role is in supporting them.  They worry they will say the wrong thing or that their emotions may come up.  

Many children have short and long-term difficulties following the death of a loved one.  Grieving children are at increased risk for academic failure, behavioral issues, depression, substance misuse, suicide and mental health issues. Grief impacts a child emotionally, mentally, academically, cognitively, physically and behaviorally.  Grief symptoms can mimic mental health disorders such as ADHD, Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder or PTSD.  

With over 20 years of experience working with grieving children and adults, Kelly is a grief expert and knows the best techniques to help a grieving child.  She can help your staff feel more confident and learn the best ways to support grieving children, respond to their needs appropriately and help the children feel less alone in their grief.  Kelly is available to provide consultation and training to schools, agencies, funeral homes and companies to make a plan on how best to support your grieving children and staff.