Summer is often seen as a time for making happy memories, with long days, lighter routines and opportunities to be outside together. But for families who have experienced the death of someone close, summer can also bring a mix of emotions. The absence of a loved one may feel more noticeable, and it can be difficult to know how to balance fun with remembrance.
At Mosaic, we encourage families to find ways to honour both joy and grief. It’s okay to laugh and have fun, just as it’s okay to feel sadness or miss someone deeply. These activities are designed to support bereaved children and families, helping you to make the most of summer while gently holding space for the people you miss.
Here are ten meaningful, creative things to try this summer.
- Make Memory Bunting from Old Clothes
Using old t-shirts, shirts or blouses, cut fabric into triangle shapes and sew or glue them onto a length of ribbon or string. You might choose items that belonged to your loved one or fabrics that remind you of them. Decorate each flag with drawings, names, dates or quotes. Hang your bunting in the garden, a bedroom or at a family picnic.
- Create a Kindness Jar
Set up a jar with small strips of paper and pens. Every time someone in the family does something kind or thoughtful, write it down and add it to the jar. This could include helping with chores, giving someone a hug or remembering a special day. At the end of the summer, open the jar and read through all the lovely things you’ve shared together.
- Explore The Walled Garden Moreton
Located near Dorchester, The Walled Garden Moreton offers a peaceful and creative day out. The combination of open space, beautiful artwork, peaceful gardens, animals, a café and a play area make it a calming place to reflect and have memorable day out. Bring a sketchbook or journal to write a poem or draw something in memory of the person you are missing.
- Camp Out in the Garden or Watch the Stars
A night under the stars can be magical. Set up a tent in the garden or simply lay out blankets and sleeping bags. Share stories, play games or take a few moments to look up at the sky and talk about your loved one. Children often find comfort in imagining that those they miss are watching over them.
- Build a Sand Tribute at the Beach
Dorset’s coastline offers many beautiful beaches to explore. While you’re there, invite children to create something in the sand that reminds them of the person they’ve lost, such as initials, a heart or a shape that represents their favourite hobby. Watching the tide gently wash the sand away can be a calming and symbolic moment.
- Create a Memory Box or Scrapbook
Throughout the summer, collect special mementos – tickets from days out, photos, drawings, dried flowers or written notes. You could dedicate a section of the box or scrapbook to your loved one, with memories, messages or photos. This can become a treasured item to look back on together.
- Join a Charity Walk or Fun Run
Look out for local charity walks or fun runs – many are suitable for families. Taking part as a team can be a lovely way to feel connected, celebrate the life of someone special and raise funds for organisations that support bereaved families, like Mosaic.
- Bake a Favourite Family Recipe
Food often brings back memories. Choose a recipe that reminds you of your loved one – perhaps their favourite dish or something they used to make. Baking together creates space for conversations and shared stories and the result is something everyone can enjoy.
- Paint and Hide a Pebble
Find a smooth pebble and decorate it with a drawing, message or meaningful symbol. You might choose a heart, a rainbow or a word that reminds you of your loved one. You can keep the pebble in the garden or leave it somewhere peaceful – a walking trail, woodland path or beach – for someone else to find.
- Plant a Memory Garden or Flowerpot
Choose flowers or plants that remind you of your loved one. This might include forget-me-nots, rosemary (traditionally associated with remembrance) or their favourite colour. Whether in a garden bed or a decorated pot, tending to plants through the summer offers a gentle, ongoing way to feel connected and cared for.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve and it’s important to give yourself permission to enjoy the moments that feel good. Creating new memories doesn’t mean forgetting; in fact, it’s often a way of carrying your loved one forward with you.
If you or your family need support this summer, Mosaic is here to help. Our team offers counselling, activities and guidance to help children, young people and families navigate life after the death of a loved one.
Get in touch to discuss how we can support your family or the children you care for.
