1. Introduction. 2. Introducing trainees to the package. 3. Ice-breakers. 4. Ground rules. 5. Research. 6. Loss experience. 7. Changes. 8. Case study. 9. Models of loss. 10. Children's understanding of death. 11. Euphemisms. 12. Death as taboo. 13. Changes in learning and behaviour. 14. Helping children. 15. Loss in the curriculum. 16. Anticipated and sudden death. 17. Cultural aspects. 18. Death of a pupil or staff member. 19. Loss in policies. 20. Helping agencies. 21. Resources.
John Holland, Ruth Dance and Carole Stitt work together at Hull City Psychological Service, and, Nic MacManus of the Hull-based Dove House Hospice, they regularly deliver Lost for Words loss awareness training in the area. John Holland is an educational psychologist, having previously worked as an infant and special needs teacher. He is the author of Understanding Children's Experiences of Parental Bereavement and co-author of Supporting Children in Public Care in School also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers, along with numerous articles on childhood bereavement.
Lost for Words is a loss awareness package designed for trainers to
guide those working, particularly in schools, in supporting
children who have suffered bereavement or other major losses. The
flexible modular structure of this resource means that a variety of
sessions can be planned around trainees' needs. Group activities,
including case studies, excellent templates for OHP transparencies,
and handouts are clearly set out. Both anticipated and sudden
death, cultural aspects, and loss response policies for schools are
well covered. Of particular interest was the data on school
responses to a bereaved child, whether teachers were approachable,
and to whom children spoke about their feelings. Guidance is given
on setting up a training session, making ground rules, and
introducing useful icebreakers. There is a good section on
children's learning behaviour, and main points for the trainer to
emphasise in helping children. This is a valuable book for anyone
who wishes to run courses on childhood loss and bereavement. There
is a wealth of information to draw on, and this book could be
useful aid in developing and running courses for those at the sharp
end.
*Mortality*
This book is a model of excellent practice both in theory and in
its application to experience. This training package set out
information in a clear and comprehensive way. Developed from
collaborative multi-agency and multi-professional work with a range
of professionals, the book is designed for use by trainers over the
course of a day or several days. It is well organised into 21
sections providing trainers with a range of tools for awareness
training. While focused upon children, their parents and schools,
material is of direct relevance to all of us who wish to think
about and reflect upon death and its meanings and practices in
life.
I think that much of this material could be adapted for use for
training in care homes - it is stimulating, insightful, and wise
but above all, practical. I was grateful for it during [a]
particular crisis. What better commendation can a reviewer
offer?
*Leveson Newsletter*
An excellent source of information regarding loss and
bereavement.
It is a "loss awareness" training package designed for teachers and
carers supporting children who are experiencing bereavement and
loss. It is designed for use by trainers over the course of a day
or several days. It offers crucial guidance backed by research.
Resources include templates, handouts and a bibliography. I covers
how to use ice breakers, engagement, ground rules, confidentiality
and materials needed.
Feelings on the return to school, the school response. Feelings to
do with loss i.e. anger, sadness, guilt, shock, disbelief,
unhappiness, worry, fear and abandonment. How to write a life line,
active models of loss using diagrams, death as taboo and covering
death in the school community.
This is so good, anyone dealing with young bereavement issues
should read this. It is set out very simply, without jargon and
should definitely be kept as a school resource.
*Climb Update*
It is a welcome, clearly expressed and practical toll for teachers
and those supporting children through loss and bereavement. Lost
for Words is an intelligent and adaptable resource, thoughtfully
presented. The guidance that it offers to teachers, social workers,
psychologists and nurses is invaluable.
*Pastoral Care, March 2006*
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