Loss is inevitable. Learning about loss is vital.
My Yellow Balloon was born in education. It has proven to be a gift to kids, families, and classrooms. It has a way of beginning a dialogue—that is inclusive rather than dismissive of children—in an authentic way. It has been known to get kids in touch with their empathy for themselves which opens the door to empathy for others. Loss is a part of every life and we each experience it multiple times and ways throughout our lifetime.
Loss has many different faces; disappointment, change, failures, mishaps, transitions, and loneliness. Loss comes in varying degrees—loss of a toy, a tooth, a friend moving away, a pet dying, a dream that didn’t come true, a family member getting sick, a divorce, and ultimately, death.
Loss can be taught to children so they know it is a natural part of life on this planet. Instead of stuffing down the natural pain associated with loss, they will learn a healthier approach of acknowledgment and care for themselves and others. Ultimately, they will know that whatever happens to them they will be okay. My Yellow Balloon is a gentle yet effective way to help children understand loss and grief and the big feelings that come with it. When we do let go and let loss naturally flow, it takes us to the heart of who we are, where our deepest and most beautiful selves live.
See how My Yellow Balloon is making an impact with students and educators.
See where my yellow balloon started—in my ninth grade english class.
