Marcia Ashford’s Some Days Are Better Than Others: Grief Support for Children offers a compassionate and insightful guide for young readers coping with loss. This heartfelt book gently illustrates that grief is not a linear process; some days will feel lighter, while others may be difficult. Through simple yet profound storytelling, children learn that experiencing both joy and sadness is a natural part of healing. It reassures them that it is okay to laugh, play, and seek comfort even while mourning a loved one.

This book is an essential resource for children navigating the complexities of loss. Every child will eventually face grief, and many may struggle to understand their mixed emotions. Ashford provides a safe space for young readers, allowing them to process their feelings in a healthy and constructive way. Addressing such a sensitive subject with care, this book empowers children by validating their emotions and guiding them through each stage of grief.

One of the standout features of Some Days Are Better Than Others is its inclusion of an Adult Page at the end. Here, Ashford reminds caregivers that they, too, are experiencing loss and need to allow themselves time to grieve. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, as adults play a crucial role in helping children manage overwhelming emotions they may be facing for the first time. By acknowledging their own grief, caregivers can provide the support and reassurance that children need.

The book offers thoughtful suggestions for commemorating a lost loved one. Families can work together to create meaningful tributes, such as making a scrapbook, planting a tree, or releasing bubbles into the sky. Acts of remembrance, like donating to a charity in the loved one’s name, offer children a tangible way to honor and celebrate the life of the person they have lost.

The illustrations by Kayla Haven beautifully complement the book’s message. Rendered in soft, soothing colors, the full-page artwork enhances the emotional depth of the story, forging a strong connection between the reader and the narrative. Haven’s talent as an illustrator shines through in each carefully crafted image, offering comfort and warmth to young minds while reinforcing the book’s themes of love and remembrance.

Some Days Are Better Than Others: Grief Support for Children is an invaluable addition to any family’s library. It provides a gentle yet powerful reminder that grief is a journey, and all emotions, whether joy, sadness, or moments of laughter, are part of the process. Highly recommended for parents, educators, and caregivers looking for a compassionate way to support children through loss.

Pages: 44 | ASIN : B0CTQ1FMP4