In this deeply moving episode of A Dose of Optimism, we explore how parents, families, children and caregivers navigate trauma, grief, and loss and what meaningful support looks like in the aftermath of a crisis.

Dr. David Schonfeld, Director at the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement, shares decades of experience helping schools and communities respond to disasters, violence, and loss, emphasizing why resilience does not mean children should be left to cope alone. Emma Payne, Founder & CEO at Help Texts., reflects on how personal loss led her to create scalable, compassionate bereavement support that meets families where they are. Dr. Solfrid Raknes discusses how evidence-based digital tools, like the Helping Hand Digital Game, can help children and adolescents build coping skills, even in the most fragile and conflict-affected settings.

Together, this conversation centers on presence, care, and long-term healing, reminding us that recovery is possible when children and those who care for them are supported with intention and humanity.

Episode Resources:

Project Open Arms

The Nevada Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Wendy G Lichtenthal - Miller School of Medicine

Mary Frances O'Connor - UCLA

The Center for Good Mourning - Arkansas Children's

The Dougy Center for Grieving Children & Families

The Happy Helping Hand Manual - Dr. Solfrid Raknes (for teachers, psycho social staff, facilitators)

Connect with Dr. David Schonfeld:

National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement Website

National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement LinkedIn

National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement Instagram

National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement Facebook

Dr. David Schonfeld LinkedIn

Connect with Emma Payne:

Emma Payne LinkedIn

Help Texts Website

Caregiver and Grief Support for Children's Hospitals

Help Texts Instagram

Help Texts Facebook

Help Texts LinkedIn

Help Texts TikTok

Connect with Dr. Solfrid Raknes:

Dr. Solfrid Raknes LinkedIn

Dr. Solfrid Raknes Instagram

Helping Hand Digital Game

Attensi Website

Connect with us:

KidsX Website

KidsX LinkedIn

Children's Hospital L.A. Website