A beautifully illustrated new book is helping children across Scotland make sense of grief with warmth, creativity and care.
The Archie Foundation has launched Storm Clouds and Rainbows, a gentle and engaging resource for children aged five to twelve who are facing the loss of someone close to them.
Written by the experienced team at Archie’s Child Bereavement Service, the book uses activities, journalling and conversation prompts to help children express their emotions and hold on to treasured memories.
At the heart of the story is Archie, the charity’s mascot, who walks hand in hand with young readers through the messy, tender landscape of grief.
Children are encouraged to write, draw, and share photos and memories of their loved one.
There is even a guide for creating a memory jar or box, a personal treasure chest of keepsakes that can help little ones stay connected to the person they miss.
The illustrations, created by Aaron Gale at Doric Books, bring the journey to life in a way that feels both comforting and hopeful.
To raise awareness of the book, the charity is running a Storm to Rainbow social media challenge, inviting people to share photos that capture nature’s stormy skies and bright bursts of colour.
Caitlin Parkin, one of the bereavement support workers at Archie’s Child Bereavement Service, was closely involved in developing the book.
“We are so proud of Storm Clouds and Rainbows and hope it brings comfort to families navigating one of life’s hardest moments,” she said.
“We worked as a team, drawing on years of experience with children, families and schools, and we also listened carefully to bereaved children themselves.”
The book’s message is simple but powerful.
Every child grieves in their own way, and with the right tools and support, they can begin to understand their emotions and keep their memories close.
“Photos, stories, small mementos, these are bridges to happier times,” said Caitlin.
The book gently helps children build a memory box filled with meaningful items that represent the unique relationship they had with the person who has died.
The Archie Child Bereavement Service offers a wide range of support, from craft sessions and activity days to one-to-one help and guidance.
Each child’s needs are different, and the service adapts to meet them, whether that is with books, group support or quiet conversations.
The Archie Foundation has supported children and families in the north of Scotland for 25 years, playing a vital role in hospitals across Aberdeen, Elgin, Tayside and the Highlands.
The bereavement service extended to the Highlands and Tayside in 2022 and now includes a team of dedicated volunteers offering local help and guidance.
Storm Clouds and Rainbows is available from Archie’s Child Bereavement Service and can also be purchased for £10.
More information is available at www.archie.org/getsupport or www.archie.org/bereavement.
