Time Out Cards

The pupil is given permission to leave class for a short time when beginning to feel out of control or just to get some "personal space" when upset. A card is carried in their pocket and the pupil may leave the room without having to ask. It is important that staff are made aware to avoid embarrassing scenes for either the pupil or the teacher. It is essential that the pupil does not just wander around the school but goes to a designated place and person.

Pocket Comforter

A pupil can discretely carry in their pocket a soft piece of fabric or a pebble or stone. Holding onto something solid can help a pupil to remain grounded and in control if upset. Equally, touching a piece of garment that belonged to the dead person can provide a comforting memory.

Secret Diary

A way to communicate with a bereaved child who finds it difficult to verbalise feelings. The pupil leaves it somewhere mutually agreed having written or drawn whatever they wish. The teacher responds in the diary and either leaves it to be picked up or discretely returns it to the pupil.

Happy/Sad Faces

The bereaved pupil has a sheet of paper/paper plate with two drawings of faces on either side, one happy, one sad. The pupil shows the side that reflects how they are feeling on a particular day. This gives the teacher an idea of how they are and therefore what approach to use.

I Can... You Can...

A series of four postcards with ideas of how others can help. Titles include TO MY TEACHER...what you can do.. A helpful communication tool. Available from The Childhood Bereavement Network Tel: 0207 843 6309