Fall Memorial Activities for Grieving Youth & Families
Fall, with its changing colors, cooling temperatures, and the fading of summer’s warmth often carries symbolism in relation to grief. The season can evoke feelings of loss, reflection, and transformation, which parallel the emotional experiences of grieving.
As we navigate this season of change, Kelly Petersohn, Camp Erin Online Program Manager, has put together these recommended fall memorial activities for families and groups. (Click here for the printable infographic)
Symbols Search
Take a moment to identify symbols that represent your person. Once each person in your family or group has identified their symbols, you can set out on a symbol search to look for those symbols and connect with your person. For more ideas, take a look at memory symbols and memory scavenger hunt.
Tribute Pumpkins
Carve pumpkins with meaningful symbols, words, or your person’s name to honor them with love and light. For littles, they can also paint or place symbolic stickers on a special pumpkin to remember your person.
Memorial Blanket
Make a memorial blanket with saved articles of clothing or fabric patterns that represent special moments and memories. Or consider ordering a memorial quilt or bear made with your person’s special clothing.
Memorial Meal
Cook up a favorite meal of your person to honor, reconnect, and nourish through familiar smells and tastes. For inspiration, you can watch this endearing Sesame Street video, which includes a memory meal to honor Uncle Jack.
Dedication Donation
Donate to a charity or cause that was meaningful to your person to honor their memory and create a positive impact in their name. Learn more about how Erin Metcalf’s Make-A-Wish inspired the start of Camp Erin!
Pay It Forward
Volunteer as a family to support other families in your community. Take a look at the National Bereavement Program Guide to find some grief support programs in your area that may be looking for volunteers.
Story Share Bonfire
Join together around a fire to share stories and special memories about your person. Click here for some story prompts for children and adults.
Memory Run/Walk:
Find a local run/walk to join in honor of your person. Or you can create a walk for your family & friends to come together and commemorate.
Dedicated Deliveries
Order a memorial gift or special delivery to support your loved ones throughout this fall season of grief. Consider an Eluna care package, specifically designed to support children and teens impacted by grief.
