“It’s OK” Grief and Loss Affirmation Cards for Children

Introducing the “It’s OK” Grief and Loss Affirmation Cards for Children

Grief is never easy — especially for children. Whether they’re mourning the loss of a beloved family member, a cherished pet, or any meaningful connection, kids often struggle to make sense of big emotions with limited words. As a children’s author who writes about emotional well-being and mental health, I wanted to create a gentle resource to help kids feel seen, supported, and safe.

That’s why I’ve created these “It’s OK” Grief and Loss Affirmation Cards for Children — a printable set of comforting messages designed to validate emotions and open up space for healing.

What Are the “It’s OK” Grief and Loss Affirmation Cards?

The “It’s OK” Affirmation Cards are a collection of simple, supportive statements that remind children their feelings are valid — whether they’re feeling sad, strong, or need a reminder that it’s okay to ask for help. Each card features:

• A soft, encouraging affirmation (like “It’s okay to cry” or “It’s okay to to keep loving someone I miss”)

• Kid-friendly visuals

• A warm, nonjudgmental tone

These cards are ideal for:

• Children who have experienced a loss (person or pet)

• Parents, caregivers, teachers, or counselors looking for ways to start meaningful conversations

• Calming corners, therapy spaces, bedtime routines, or classroom SEL toolkits

How to Use Them

• Daily Draw: Invite your child to pick a card that fits how they’re feeling that day.

• Create Your Own: Cut out your own cards and encourage your child to write or draw their own affirmations.

• Conversation Starters: Use a chosen card as a gentle entry point for deeper emotional discussions.

• Visual Comfort: Display the cards where your child can revisit them when they need extra support.

Why Affirmations Matter in Grief

Children often wonder if their feelings are “normal” or “too much.” These cards offer loving permission to grieve in their own way — whether that means crying, asking for a hug, or even feeling strong. Each message is a quiet reassurance that whatever they’re feeling… It’s okay.

Download the Cards

You can download and print the “It’s OK” Affirmation Cards for Children” HERE. Cut them out and keep them somewhere accessible for moments when your child needs a little extra care and validation.

Remember that grief is a journey, and every child (and adult!) walks it differently. I hope that this gentle resource brings a little more light, love, and comfort to the path ahead. Love to all!

With heart,
Marissa Bader 
Children’s Author & Mental Health Advocate