When a loved one dies, the pain can be overwhelming—particularly if you’re also caring for a grieving child. Kenzie’s Gift created “Memories Are Forever: A Guide to Grief for Mātua (Parents) and Caregivers” to help families navigate bereavement while supporting children’s mental wellbeing. Drawing on professional insights, cultural perspectives, and real stories, this resource empowers you to handle day-to-day challenges and prepare your whānau for the emotional road ahead.

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Why This Guide Matters

Clear, Age-Appropriate Strategies

‍Children process loss differently depending on their age, developmental stage, and relationship to the person who died. The guide explains how babies, toddlers, young children, and teenagers might react, and provides tangible ways to console and involve each age group in the grieving process.

Holistic, Māori-Informed Approach

‍Grief affects you physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Kenzie’s Gift applies te whare tapa whā, the Māori holistic health model, to show how nurturing taha tinana (physical wellbeing), taha hinengaro (mental wellbeing), taha wairua (spiritual wellbeing), and taha whānau (family wellbeing) leads to more balanced healing.

Practical Help for Everyday Challenges

‍Daily routines—eating, sleeping, or even remembering to pay bills—can become overwhelming in the wake of the death of a loved one. This guide offers simple suggestions for self-care, from stepping outside to connect with nature to cooking small, nutritious meals when your appetite is low. By tending to your own wellbeing, you’re better able to care for grieving children (tamariki).

Honest Discussions About Death

‍Children deserve truthful, developmentally appropriate explanations about what has happened. The guide includes scripts and examples, helping you address painful questions without overwhelming them. Whether a loved one’s death was sudden, expected, or traumatic, you’ll gain confidence in how to talk openly and listen compassionately.

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Key Topics Covered

Understanding Grief

‍Explore the nature of grief and why it’s different for every individual. Learn to identify normal emotional reactions—such as anger, fear, or guilt—and discover when it may be time to seek professional help.

Day-to-Day Coping

‍Pick up tips for managing each day’s demands, from small actions like short walks and journaling to bigger steps like reorganising schedules and leaning on community resources. You’ll also learn why it’s sometimes okay to “put on a brave face,” and how to balance that with genuine emotional release.

Supporting Children & Teenagers

‍Learn how children’s understanding of death evolves, why they may repeatedly ask the same question, and how to address their fears about future safety. The guide also covers teenage risk-taking behaviours, and how to maintain healthy communication and boundaries through these tumultuous years.

Caring for Yourself

‍A parent’s wellbeing heavily influences a child’s emotional recovery. Kenzie’s Gift offers guidance on recognising your own grief triggers, leaning on supportive friends, and sustaining spiritual health—so you can continue to show up for your child.

Preserving Memories & Looking Forward

‍The guide highlights the value of rituals, memory books, and anniversaries, offering comfort as you carry your loved one in your heart and honour them in daily life. Over time, these small practices can transform painful reminders into moments of cherished remembrance.

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Download or Order “Memories Are Forever: A Guide to Grief for Mātua”

If you’re ready for practical, compassionate advice on guiding your family through bereavement, download or order “Memories Are Forever: A Guide to Grief for Mātua (Parents) and Caregivers” from Kenzie’s Gift today. Gain the tools you need to create a nurturing environment where children can express their sadness and ask hard questions.

How to Get Your Copy

1. Choose: Opt for a digital version for immediate access or a physical booklet if you prefer something tangible.
   
2. Contact Us: hello@kenziesgift.com if you have questions or need personalised support, including therapy referrals.
   

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Helping Families, One Step at a Time

Kenzie’s Gift is dedicated to strengthening mental wellbeing of children, young adults and thier families affected by serious illness or grief. From one on one therapy options to dedicated resources for children and teenagers, we aim to offer the right support at the right time.