“Why I Do Not See My Mum” is a free, printable PDF social story for children that gently explains a mother’s absence due to mental health difficulties. Created to support emotional wellbeing, this sensitive and supportive resource helps children make sense of complex family situations where a parent is no longer able to maintain regular contact because of serious emotional or psychological struggles.
This illustrated, child-friendly resource offers clear explanations to reassure children that:
-
Their mum’s absence is due to mental illness, not because of anything the child did
-
They may feel sad, angry, confused, or worried, and those feelings are valid
-
Their mum still loves them but needs help from doctors and nurses to get better
-
Trusted adults are there to provide care, safety, and stability
-
Life can still be safe, joyful, and full of love
The story reinforces the message that even in difficult times, the child is deeply valued, supported, and never to blame. It also touches on the importance of talking to someone they trust and maintaining hope and routine.
Suitable for:
-
Children in foster care, kinship care, or residential settings
-
Young people affected by parental mental health, including depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or emotional instability
-
Social workers, therapists, and counsellors doing direct work or life story work
-
Use in safeguarding, contact arrangements, lifestory work or emotional check-ins
This trauma-informed, compassionate tool is perfect for professionals and carers supporting kids through difficult family changes. It can be used in one-to-one sessions, family support work, or therapeutic conversations to provide empathy, clarity, and comfort. It is a nurturing and accessible explanation for children dealing with parental absence due to mental health. A valuable resource for emotional support, grief processing, and helping children feel safe and understood.
