Ways to Honor & Remember Your Person

There is no right or wrong way to grieve and the same goes for remembering your person. This list provides some ideas for children & families to honor a special person who has died:

• Build a Memory Jar: We have been sharing this activity for many years and have witnessed the supportive power of creating a special place for memories. We recommend jars like this filled with a little string of lights or a little electric candle placed in a special place with a pad of paper so that anyone can contribute to the jar and anyone can visit the jar when they are moved to visit their loved one.
• Light a Virtual Candle: Our friends at Experience Camps have created a page where you can light a virtual candle in tribute to anyone you are grieving. This is a nice idea to honor your person with their name and a flickering candle. It’s a powerful way to find communal mourning.
• Cook a Special Recipe: Did your person have a signature dish or favorite meal? For inspiration you can read Taste of Grief on Father’s Day or Baking My Mother’s Recipes Keeps Her Near.
• Legacy Book: If you have a legacy book, revisit this book in a comfortable setting. If you don’t have this kind of book, try looking through old family photo albums or make a list of questions you would want to know about your person. Reach out to someone in their life who may want to explore these questions with you.
• Memory Box: Revisit any treasured items that you have kept in a memory box. If you don’t have a box, you can make one. You may choose to start by decorating the box with photocopied pictures of times shared, a family motto, inspiring quotes, prayers, or mantras. In the box, you can place photos, clothing, accessories or any special item that reminds you of your person.
• Movies/Music: Watch their favorite movie or listen to their favorite song. Watch their favorite sport. Here is a wonderful article about the power of music in grief.
• Videos: Rewatch videos that you have saved in a comfortable setting either solo or with some friends & family.
• Clothing & Accessories: Wrap yourself up in one of their shirts, scarfs, necklaces, hoodies, or coats for the day.
• Connect Outside: Visit a place that reminds of your person. This may be a favorite path, tree, type of flower, store, or local coffee shop.