Karen Ferry

Benson the Boxer Program for Loss and Grief Karen Ferry

This comprehensive program manual provides therapists, parents, and other caregivers with a neuroscience based framework for understanding the effects of loss on children at different developmental stages. Together with the Benson the Boxer storybook, this program is a psychoeducational tool, incorporating contemporary neuroscience research, written specifically for children who have suffered the pain of losing a caring and loving relationship. The first section of the manual provides a definition of loss and trauma, and explains the emotional and neurological effect of loss on children. It specifically looks at the development of memory systems and the behaviours adopted when the brain processes incoming sensory signals, particularly sensory signals that are frightening or painful. The second section provides the theoretical explanation for Benson the Boxer, the themes relevant in loss and grief therapy, as well as guidelines for using the story as a therapist, an educator, or a parent. At the end of the program manual, worksheets are provided for 'junior' children (ages 4-7) and "senior" children (ages 8-12+). Filled with colourful and fun activities, these resources will help children absorb the material and integrate the lessons into their lives.