The Kenzie's Gift Memories are Forever kit has some ideas, tips, tools, and things to think about to help you improve your health and wellbeing during this tough time.
The death of a loved one can feel confusing and scary—especially for younger children. To help them navigate overwhelming emotions and preserve cherished memories, Kenzie’s Gift offers the “Memories Are Forever” Grief Diary for ages 5–12.” This playful yet comforting resource is packed with age-appropriate activities, colorful illustrations, and gentle prompts that turn confusion into understanding, and big feelings into manageable steps toward healing.
The diary’s bright visuals and interactive pages engage a child’s natural curiosity, offering them a safe space to draw, write, and express emotions. Fun elements—like sticker placement and simple journaling prompts—help maintain their interest and encourage creativity throughout the grieving process.
Parents, teachers, and guardians can walk alongside children as they use the diary, opening up conversations about tough topics. The included tips and quotes make it easier for adults to explain death, acknowledge fears, and build trust in a way that resonates with a child’s understanding of the world.
Younger children may not yet have the language to talk about their feelings, which can manifest as changes in sleep, appetite, or general mood. This diary offers gentle strategies for identifying different emotions, suggests physical activities to cope, and underscores the importance of day-to-day routines and self-care.
From creating a “whānau tree” to building a memory box, children find hands-on ways to remember their loved one. These personal rituals help them retain a positive connection to the past while gradually adapting to life’s “new normal.”
The diary begins with a child-centered exploration of their likes, routines, and family details—reminding them they’re still themselves, even in the wake of loss. Filling these pages can boost self-esteem and give kids a sense of stability.
With gentle language, the diary explains that grief comes and goes, and that feeling sad, angry, or confused is normal. Children learn simple coping strategies—like breathing exercises or journaling with crayons and stickers—to handle scary emotions.
Through guided prompts, kids reflect on who their special person was, what they loved doing together, and what made them laugh. Activities like “draw your favorite memory” or “write a short letter to them” help preserve the love they shared.
By labeling emotions and discussing ways to handle them, the diary demystifies “big feelings” and encourages kids to speak up. It also empowers them to communicate these needs to parents, teachers, or a trusted adult.
Children are prompted to list the people who care about them—family members, friends, counselors—so they know exactly who to turn to when they need a listening ear or some extra support.
The final “My Stuff” section invites freeform drawings, notes, or keepsakes, encouraging kids to make the diary truly their own. This section is ideal for children who like to color, paste stickers, or write poems.
If your child is wrestling with the confusion of death and the big emotions of grief, download or order the “Memories Are Forever” Grief Diary for ages 5–12 from Kenzie’s Gift. With kind words, delightful artwork, and straightforward exercises, this resource supports children through the storm of grief, at a pace that respects their age and unique personality.
The “Memories Are Forever” Grief Diary for 5–12-year-olds bridges the gap between heartbreak and understanding. By coupling compassionate guidance with interactive fun, it helps children hold onto precious memories while gently moving forward.