Four Bridges of Grief

Losing a loved one is, unfortunately, something many children experience. And though it’s a sad and harsh truth, the best thing we can do is help them understand and work through the grieving process. This activity book addresses grief differently than any other book out there, as it allows the child to learn and practice healthy techniques along the way.

This book introduces The 4 Bridges of Grief—a new and groundbreaking approach to working your way through the grieving process. Developed by Mindy Crouch, a social worker and therapist, it is designed to help people understand that grief can be a scary, complex journey, but one that can be conquered. Because this approach has been so successful for her patients, Mindy wanted to develop a child-friendly version so kids can benefit from the same way of thinking.

The 4 Bridges of Grief begins with an understanding that, when a loved one passes, it leaves a deep, dark and scary hole in your heart. And though that hole will never go away, you can learn how to cross it. The journey begins with the 3-Rope Bridge, which is shaky and unstable. From there, you’ll work your way up to the sturdier Glass Bridge, then the Wooden Bridge, then the Steel Bridge. And though it’s not always a continuous journey from one bridge to the next (as there are often setbacks in grief), eventually, the hole in your heart will become less scary and more filled with love and positive memories.

In addition to the introduction and explanation of the 4 Bridges of Grief, this book is packed with helpful tips, definitions and coping mechanisms, as well as a memory capsule where your child can capture all of the memories they’ll want to cherish forever.

What’s also unique about this book is its 12 Learn-and-Earn chapters, each offering journal exercises that will allow your child to learn by doing. These healthy practices are something your child can take with them as they deal with any and all challenges life throws their way. As they complete each chapter, they will earn a badge, giving them an added sense of achievement.

The 12 Learn-and-Earn Chapters Are:

1. Defining Grief, Anxiety & Depression

2. Identifying Triggers & Flutters

3. The Hole in Your Heart

4. Building Bridges

5. The 3-Rope Bridge

6. The Glass Bridge

7. The Wooden Bridge

8. The Steel Bridge

9. Other People’s Feelings

10. Coping Skills

11. The Memory Capsule

12. Pat Yourself on The Back

BONUS: Questions & Conversation Starters

The overarching message of this book is there is no wrong or right way to grieve, but there are things one can expect. It teaches children how to work through those feelings, and deal with others grieving. It teaches them that they can talk about death, rather than holding in their emotions and concerns. It gives them permission to not feel guilty for having fun and laughing during grief. Or scared that they’ll forget the memory of their loved one. Because the love they had will always be in their heart, no matter what.

Who is the author, Mindy Crouch?

Mindy Crouch is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who specializes in providing mental health services. She works as a psychotherapist and offers individual therapy sessions to adults, focusing on treating anxiety, depression and grief. She has experience working with clients dealing with various issues, including relationship problems, life transitions, and stress management. Mindy Crouch utilizes evidence-based therapeutic approaches in her practice to help her clients achieve their mental health goals. She is also the author of a second Learn-and-Earn activity book called Understanding Dementia (mindycrouch.com), which takes a modern approach to teaching children the basics of the disease while also arming them with the tools they need and encouraging them to recognize and share their emotions.