A Therapeutic Metaphor to Find Stability and Support During Emotional Storms.
 
The Lighthouse of Grief worksheet is a compassionate, printable A4 resource that helps children explore their feelings, memories, and the people or tools that help them feel safe during challenging emotional times.
 
Just like a real lighthouse guides ships through a storm, this worksheet uses the metaphor of the sea and the light beam to explore heavy feelings and find sources of comfort. By mapping out their personal resources, children develop self-awareness and resilience when navigating the "stormy sea" of grief.
 
Why It Works (Therapeutic Underpinning)
 
Metaphorical Mapping: Assigns meaning to different parts of the lighthouse scene, making abstract emotions concrete and manageable:
The Stormy Sea: Represents difficult emotions and feelings.
The Lighthouse Beam: Illuminates and represents memories and connection.
The Safe Harbour: The space that provides comfort, stability, and safety.
Resource Identification: Guides the child to list their Anchors (people that provide comfort/stability) and Tools (coping skills/objects that help them self-soothe).
Promotes Resilience: By focusing on the light and the safe harbour, the child learns to identify and rely on their own internal and external resources during emotional storms.
 
What’s Included (Digital Download)
 
Lighthouse of Grief Worksheet (PDF): A4, printable, illustrated therapeutic activity.