Talking to Children and Youth about Climate Grief
Articles/Websites
GradesK, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5Health
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Provided by Climate Mental Health Network
What it is
- In this resource from Climate Mental Health Network, readers explore supportive, non-clinical approaches—such as creative activities, mindful rituals, physical movement, and time outdoors—to help children work through feelings about environmental issues.
- The two-page guide offers adaptable ideas for educators and caregivers to build emotional resilience, strengthen students’ connection to nature, and recognize when to seek professional mental health assistance.
Teaching tips
Positives
- This resource has strategies that are simple and require few materials.
- Students will feel heard and supported by teachers implementing the strategies in this resource.
Prerequisites
- This resource is intended for students who have some knowledge about climate change.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Teachers can share this resource with parents before beginning a lesson or unit involving climate change topics.
- Teachers can collaborate with guidance counselors, school psychologists, and other professionals to create a plan to support their students as they experience climate grief.
- The Climate Emotions Wheel mentioned in the guide may be useful to help students identify and process their emotions related to climate change.
From the scientist review
This resource contains information, tips, and suggestions about how to cope with and talk to children about climate grief. Feeling and dealing with climate grief is an important part of learning about climate change and how the environment is changing. Additional resources for parents and educators are provided. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
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