Welcome the students to our Grief Garden session. Introduce today’s goals: defining grief, exploring emotions, journaling, and sharing coping strategies.
Script: “Good morning, everyone! Today we’re going to learn about grief—what it is and how we can take care of our feelings when we feel sad or miss someone.”
Ask students to think-pair-share on this question. Record their answers on chart paper as you facilitate discussion.
Script: “What do you think grief means? When might we feel grief?”
Distribute one [Emotion Expression Card](#emotion-expression-cards) to each student. Ask them to think of a time they felt that emotion and share with a partner.
Script: “Look at your card. Think about a time you felt this emotion. How did your body feel? Turn to a friend and share for 2–3 minutes.”
Hand out the [Grief Garden Reflection Journal](#grief-garden-reflection-journal) pages. Encourage creative expression through drawing, writing, and colors.
Script: “Now, draw or write about a time you felt sad or missed someone. Show how your body or heart felt. You can use words or pictures!”
Invite 3–4 volunteers to share their coping ideas. Record strategies on chart paper as they share. Emphasize there are many ways to feel better.
Script: “What helps you feel better when you’re sad? Let’s add your ideas to our coping chart!”
Wrap up by reinforcing that grief is natural and sharing helps us heal. Thank students for their openness and remind them they can always talk to you.
Script: “Thank you for sharing your feelings today. Remember, we grow stronger by supporting each other.”
