ABSTRACT

Grief support groups provide excellent opportunities for individuals to express their thoughts and feelings with others who are in similar circumstances. Moreover, the group setting allows for members to share their narratives, a practice that has been effective in helping people process their emotions. Bereaved students often feel alienated from their peers in the classroom but may feel more comfortable around others who are grieving. The group setting offers a sense of safety, too. Since support groups are not designed to offer professional counseling, they do not require the involvement of a psychologist, and are therefore an ideal way for educators to help kids in their schools. This chapter suggests guidelines for starting grief support group for children of various ages, and it includes advice and cautions to keep in mind.