Why Healing with Play Matters

November is Children’s Grief Awareness Month, a time to honor the experiences of grieving children and call attention to community support. Through providing direct care and educational outreach, Tu Nidito is on a mission to ensure that no child grieves alone. According to the Child Bereavement Estimation Model developed by Judi’s House, 1 in 10 children in Arizona will experience the death of a parent or sibling by age 18, and by age 25 this number more than doubles to 369,000. Arizona ranks as the 18th highest state for number of bereaved youth. While childhood grief is not rare—it’s a public health issue that affects classrooms, childhood development, relationships, sports teams, and neighborhoods across Tucson. Tu Nidito’s bereavement support groups intervene at a devastating time for children and their families, we witness firsthand their courage and resilience.

This life-changing work is made possible thanks to the 191 compassionate volunteers and board members and the generosity of our Tucson partners. This Children’s Grief Awareness Month, we are honored to partner with Children’s Museum Tucson for Healing with Play, an evening of free comfort, support, and hope for families with child(ren) age 4-18 grieving a death.

What to Expect at Healing with Play

Healing with Play is free to attend event for families with a child age 4-18 grieving a death. Tu Nidito staff alongside trained volunteers will lead sharing circles for children and teens, grouped by age—from our youngest participants, starting at age four, through high schoolers. In these circles, participants will be making a Memory Garden; a place where we can grow love and memories, even when someone has died. Whether they choose to speak or simply listen, each child has the opportunity to reflect, connect, and feel understood by others who have also experienced a death.

Following the hour-long sharing circles, families are invited to explore the Museum together. This time offers a joyful reminder that moments of play and discovery can coexist with grief—and that healing often begins in ordinary, shared experiences. Through conversation, storytelling, and hands-on activities, we help normalize discussions about death and loss—helping children feel seen, supported, and not alone.

How Can I Attend Healing with Play?

• Address: Children’s Museum Tucson Education Center
  130 S. Scott Ave., Tucson, AZ 85701
• Time: Saturday November 15th, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Healing with Play is free to attend, however registration is required. Participants can register by completing this form here. If you need help registering, have any questions about attending this event, or cannot attend the event but are interested in learning more about Tu Nidito’s services or education, we are here to support you. Please reach out to Tu Nidito by calling 520-322-9155 or emailing i[email protected]. Space is limited so register today.

Grief doesn’t disappear when the month ends. Tu Nidito’s bereavement support groups for children, teens, young adults, caregivers, and their families grieving a death are available year-round completely free-of-charge to whoever needs them. If you know a child or family struggling with loss, remind them that they are not alone. Tu Nidito is here to help, and together, we can create a community where every child can find comfort, hope, and connection. Learn more about our bereavement support here or show your support to grieving youth by getting involved today.