Table 3 Children’s free-form responses

Need for extended follow-up (n = 3)

“Not enough sessions”

“Maybe more sessions and closer to home…I found that 4 sessions was too short.”

“Four sesions is too short and I would have liked to have done some painting.”

Normalizing grief (n = 2)

“I enjoyed participating in the workshop because it helped me to meet other kids that are in the same situation as me. I have a good memory (of the workshop) and I remember that I liked the fact that our parents didn’t see our drawings.”

“It helped me to realize that I was not the only kid going through bereavement. I liked the hands-on activities that really helped me to reflect.”

Difficulties speaking-up    (n = 4)

“I didn’t feel ready to talk at the time because I was too young.”

“I was suffering…you didn’t hear me…I’m not saying it was because of you…I’m still suffering 5 years later.”

“I was very intimidated”

“The ambiance was difficult. I thought we would do more creative activities (painting). I felt uneasy when we had to take turns talking in front of everyone.”

Praise for the team (n = 5)

“Thank you for your support!”

“Thank you for all the help you gave me, you helped free me from some of my fears and I hope the other children can say the same. I would like to redo the workshop with my brothers and sisters who didn’t do it last time if that’s possible.”

“The sessions helped me a lot. I thank the staff who were attentive listeners.”

“It was super cool and I would recommend it to other kids and teens.”

“I loved the workshop and the staff were kind.”