Grief Support Resources for Children, Families, and Schools
Grief support resources for children can make a real difference when a family or school is trying to respond to loss with care and clarity.
This page is a practical directory of reputable organizations, crisis options, school counselor tools, grief camps, and counseling locators—organized so you can quickly find the right kind of help.
Important disclaimer: This directory is for general information and support navigation. It is not medical, mental health, or legal advice.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 (U.S.) or your local emergency number. If you need urgent emotional support, use the crisis resources below.
Quick Links: Children’s Grief Resources
Grief Support Resources for Children: Immediate Crisis Help
If you are worried about safety or urgent emotional distress, start here. These crisis options and referral resources are available 24/7 in the United States.
Emergency Services (U.S.)
- Emergency: Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.)
Free, confidential support 24/7 by call, text, or chat for people in crisis or emotional distress.
SAMHSA National Helpline and Treatment Locator (U.S.)
Referral and information for mental health and substance use treatment, including how to find local care.
Find Local Child Bereavement Support
When you need help in your area, start with a children-specific directory. These links are commonly used by families, schools, and grief programs to locate services by state or ZIP code.
National Alliance for Children’s Grief (NACG): Find Local Support
A national hub that helps families and professionals locate grief support providers and centers for children and teens.
Therapy and Counseling Directories
Children’s Grief Resources for Parents and Caregivers
These guides focus on developmentally appropriate language, common grief reactions, and practical steps adults can use at home to provide stability and reassurance.
American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org): Talking with Children About Death
Practical guidance on how children understand death at different ages and what language tends to be most helpful.
AAP: How Children Understand Death
American Psychological Association: Nurturing Children Through Grief
Evidence-informed guidance for supporting children through grief with consistency and emotional safety.
APA: Nurturing Children Through Grief
AACAP Facts for Families: Children and Grief
A clear overview of how children may respond to loss and when to seek additional help.
Sesame Workshop: Grief Resources for Young Children
Age-appropriate videos and printable supports for young children and the adults who care for them.
The Dougy Center: Grief Support Resources (Kids & Families)
Widely used grief education materials for assured, age-appropriate support. (Helpful when you need printable tools.)
School Counselor Resources for Grieving Students
These tools help counselors and educators provide consistent support, classroom guidance, and appropriate referrals when needed.
Coalition to Support Grieving Students (School Modules and Tools)
Free training modules and handouts designed specifically for school environments.
ASCA and NASP (School Mental Health Standards and Guidance)
Grief Camps and Peer Support for Kids
For many families, support is most effective when children meet peers who understand their experience. These programs provide structured connection and coping support.
Comfort Zone Camp
Experience Camps
Eluna Network: Camp Erin
Michigan Grief Support for Children and Families
If you are in Michigan, these options include peer groups, hospice-based bereavement support, and community navigation services.