A Sibling's Voice

For My Sister, Michelle

Michelle, Michelle,
She was my sister,
She is my sister.
I will not forget her,
I will not forget her.

There in the moonlight,
I don't see her,
But she sees me.
And as I continue my journey,
I'll love her forever,
Forever, forever,
Michelle.

- For Michelle Stanton Turner by Austin Turner (Big Brother, age 7), December 31, 2006 (12 days after her death)

Here are some helpful activities for a sibling coping with loss.

Often a child may feel very helpless after a death in the family. Anything which gives confidence is good. A new skill can help a child regain lost self-esteem. It can renew a sense of personal strength and control. Also, nonverbal expression, through arts or sports, might be an easier way for some children to cope.

• Offer music or art lessons
• Find a class in karate, wrestling, chess, ceramics
• Supply materials for arts and crafts projects
• Make or give the child hand puppets
• Provide a blank notebook as a journal or sketch pad
• Find a charity to give to or work for in memory of the one who died
• Encourage poetry/artwork & letter writing
• Plant a tree