Training volunteers and professionals to work with grieving children and their families

This article presents five foundational principles important for the training of professionals and volunteers who work with grieving children and their families. The principles discussed are: first, that expressing feelings is part of the healing process and requires safety and trust; second, that grieving is a process unique to each person; third, that working with grieving children and their families touches our own grief; fourth, that process is more important than content; and fifth, that working with grieving children and adults is a three-fold commitment. The importance of training and concluding remarks concerning inspiration are also included.