Benson the Boxer

The article discusses "Benson the Boxer," a psychoeducational tool designed to help children and young people navigate grief and loss through the story of a boxer dog named Benson who loses his best friend, Lucy. The story addresses how the brain reacts to loss and grief, highlighting the emotional and neurobiological impacts these experiences have on children. The accompanying program manual and worksheets provide guidance for therapists, educators, and parents, offering activities to facilitate discussions and help children process their feelings. The aim is to create a safe space for children to express their grief, understand their emotions, and develop strategies to move forward from loss, avoiding long-term negative consequences.

  • Understand the neurobiological effects of grief and loss on children and young people.

  • Recognize the importance of addressing and processing grief to prevent long-term psychological impacts.

  • Identify strategies to create a safe and supportive environment for children experiencing grief.

  • Learn how to use storytelling as a therapeutic tool to engage children in discussing their emotions.

  • Explore the use of the "Benson the Boxer" program in facilitating discussions about loss and grief with children.

  • Develop skills to help children articulate their feelings of loss and find healthy ways to cope with grief.

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