Testimonial
Professional Review of Growing Memories:
A Musical Audio Circle Story of Love, Loss, and Resilience.
Reviewed by:
Ami Armagost, MSW, RSW
Grief Therapist
AWC Grief Support
She/her
ami@awcgrief.com
www.awcgrief.com
It was a pleasure experiencing the first chapter of Growing Memories. The story and language is simple yet thoughtful. The illustrations, music and sounds add a gentle tone while activating the imagination and enhancing engagement. The story is touching and beautifully put together.
This digital storybook provides adults with a practical framework for supporting children in understanding death and emotional responses to loss. The use of story, illustration, and music, connected to the world around them, creates a meaningful and engaging learning experience. There is an overall sense of calmness consistent throughout the chapter. The child-appropriate and thoughtful prompts encourage emotional expression, reflection, and learning. This is a gentle, compassionate, and valuable resource for adults supporting children.
Thank you for sharing your work, and for all the effort you put into creating a resource for children and the adults supporting them.
A. Growing Memories Program
School Workshop Storytelling Format (Ages 5–8)
A circle-based musical storytelling experience that supports children in exploring grief, remembrance, emotional literacy, and the natural cycles of life through story, music, and nature connection.
Program Approach
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Circle-based learning rooted in belonging, safety, and shared reflection
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Musical storytelling integration with original songs and soundscapes
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Nature-based metaphors to support understanding of change, loss, and renewal
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Trauma-informed SEL practices that honour each child’s unique experience
Learning Outcomes
(Aligned with SEL and Early Years Learning Frameworks)
Children will be supported to:
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Recognize and name a range of emotions connected to change, loss, and memories
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Understand that grief can look and feel different for everyone
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Develop empathy and compassion for themselves and others
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Explore healthy ways to express feelings and share memories
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Build emotional vocabulary and self-awareness
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Strengthen connection through listening, storytelling, and community circles
Delivery Model
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Small-group format: 10–15 children
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Flexible school-based delivery options
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Suitable for classrooms, wellness groups, grief support groups, and targeted student supports
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Can be offered as a single storytelling experience or as part of the complete Growing Memories learning journey
B. School-Based Workshops
Bereavement Awareness & Emotional Literacy Workshops (Ages 5–8)
Interactive workshops designed to help children build grief literacy, emotional awareness, and compassionate connections within their school community.
Workshop Elements
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Circle-based learning sessions
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Guided storytelling and reflective discussion
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Creative expression activities connected to SEL learning
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Music, movement, and mindfulness-based reflection
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Opportunities to explore memories, feelings, and connection
Workshop Themes May Include
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Understanding feelings after a loss or significant change
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How memories help us stay connected
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Supporting friends who are experiencing grief
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Creating safe spaces for conversations about loss
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Recognizing that all feelings belong
Ideal For
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Classroom groups
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Small student support groups
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Mental health and wellness initiatives
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Bereavement awareness programming
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Professional learning support for educators and school teams
