School Programs
grief & loss
A non-judgmental program for participants to process feelings of grief & loss. Animal Assisted Intervention helps them process their emotions and allows them space to grow.
Target Audience: Students who have lost a loved one, students who have lost a loved pet, students facing parental separation, divorce, or other grief or loss.
Price: $3,940.52
Our Approach to Grief and Loss
At Canine Comprehension, our approach to grief and loss is grounded in current evidence and best practice. We recognise that grief is a normal, individual process, not something to “get over,” but an experience to be acknowledged, explored, and supported. Our programs create a safe, compassionate space where young people can unpack complex feelings, share their experiences, and learn healthy ways to express and manage their emotions.
We focus on normalising grief and providing practical, creative activities that help children and teens understand that all feelings are valid. Our team are experienced mentors who are not psychologists, and we do not offer clinical counselling or therapy. We strongly encourage our program to be run alongside other supports, such as school wellbeing staff, psychologists, or community services, to ensure each young person receives the tailored care they need.
By working together with families and professionals, we aim to empower young people to navigate grief with confidence, connection, and hope.
Session Plan: Grief and Loss (Evidence-Based)
My rights, my dog’s rights
Learn about our Canine Comprehension tutor and their AAI dog, the program, and our rights and responsibilities – self-reflect on current feelings about school, emotional literacy, communication skills, and connections to peers. Introduce the idea that grief is a normal, personal process.
Understanding Grief: Emotions and What to Do With Them
Read Michael Rosen’s Sad Book together with the dog as a focus to rest and listen. Explore the wide range of emotions that can come with grief – sadness, anger, confusion, relief. Use creative activities (drawing, storytelling, simple mindfulness practices) to help children name and express their feelings. Emphasise that all emotions are valid, and it’s okay to feel them.
Coping With Big Feelings: Strategies for Tough Days
Discuss and practise healthy ways to manage difficult emotions, such as deep breathing, talking to someone, drawing, being with a pet, or quiet time. Share stories (real or book-based) about what helps on sad days. Encourage children to identify their own safe strategies.
Let’s Talk, Let’s Learn, Let’s Play
Create a safe space for children to share their experiences of grief, if they wish. Games with the dog or group activities to reinforce that everyone’s grief is unique. Discuss self-care and the importance of looking after our minds and bodies during tough times.
The Memory Tree: Discussing Life and Grief
Read The Memory Tree with the dog present. Explore the cycle of life, how endings can lead to new beginnings (e.g., falling leaves create soil for new growth). Discuss how book characters cope with sadness and use the memory tree to feel close to loved ones. Identify support systems, family, friends, pets, teachers, and community.
Creating Our Own Memory Tree
Guide students in creating their own memory tree using drawings, collages, or real leaves. Invite sharing of memories or things that bring comfort (optional and always child-led). Reinforce that grief is different for everyone and remembering is personal.
Building a Support System
Talk about how grief changes but doesn’t simply go away. Brainstorm together who children can turn to for support and practise asking for help. Role-play using the dog, supportive conversations, and encourage children to recognise the many people and places that can help when they’re feeling sad or overwhelmed.
Let’s Celebrate and Reflect
Reflect on the journey through the program. Celebrate strengths and progress in understanding and coping with grief. Create a small group ritual or memory space to honour loved ones (e.g., add to the memory tree or share a group story). Encourage ongoing conversations and remind everyone that support is always available.
What people are saying about our dog therapy programs…
Canine comprehension was such a brilliant program for our students they thrived on having Cooper during the day at school as it made something to look forward to if they were having a bad morning. Samantha was brilliant !!!!! She was such a great educator and really made a point of getting to know the children which made such a beautiful impact
My daughter started sessions in 2020 when she had a massive spike in her anxiety. The canine comprehension sessions quickly became a highlight of her week and really helped reduce her anxiety. She has always loved dogs and so these sessions are perfect to help her recover from a stressful week.
Ready to book a program?
Once you have chosen the right program for you, you can book online.
Please read our FAQs and our bookings, cancellation & pricing policy before booking a school or library program.
Interested in funding options?
Our programs are approved on the Victorian Government’s School Mental Health Menu, making it easier for schools to access funding.