After someone you care about loses a pregnancy it can be so hard to know how to show you care. If you want to send or take a gift that is both meaningful and helpful, here are some ideas that will last much longer than flowers.

A Journal

Journaling has been proven to help with the processing of grief after loss. Almost everyone is mesmerized by the feel of a new blank journal full of promise and possibility. You can make it even more tempting to get started by adding some journaling supplies. Find a great pen that writes smoothly. Add a few colored fine-tip pens to encourage creativity. Embellishments like washi tape, encouraging or beautiful stickers, a glue stick, and a small journaling ruler would round out the gift nicely. You could even go online and search for a list of journal prompts for miscarriage. If you print it, then you can include it for inspiration. Alternatively, you can choose a prepared journal for miscarriage.

A Travel Mug

Taking time out to slow down and reflect is an important part of the mourning process. Whether she’s a Stanley girl or more of a fancy ceramic-style girl, you can find a beverage container that will make her smile. Add her favorite tea, coffee syrup, drink mix, or coffee shop gift card. An encouraging affirmation sticker or two adds a bit of whimsy to a travel mug.

A Plant

Instead of a generic bouquet, get a plant that will live on as a memorial with special meaning. Something that blooms around the time baby was due (like daffodil bulbs for the spring or a Christmas cactus for December) is nice. You could choose a plant that represents remembrance like Forget-Me-Nots or Rosemary. A house plant with heart-shaped leaves, like Cyclamen, Pothos, or String of Hearts would also work. Some gloves and a trowel go well with seeds or bulbs. A small watering can or a lovely pot pair well with house plants.

Self Care

Miscarriage is physically uncomfortable, and afterward, women often feel betrayed by their bodies, and may not care well for themselves. A selection of her favorite self-care products will remind her to slow down and let herself heal. You could do a selection of bath or skin products, Or some books or magazines, and her favorite snacks. Or simply cozy socks, a blanket, and a sleep mask. A gift certificate for a massage or facial would also be a great choice.

Meaningful Jewelry

An understated bracelet, necklace, or key chain that can serve as an encouraging reminder is a thoughtful option. Choose a traditional remembrance theme like a heart, butterfly, or forget-me-not that won’t have obvious meaning to the public, but will feel special to her. When she has a grief wave, the feeling of that piece will help give her comfort and strength.

After considering all of these great options, never forget that your time, listening skills, and long-term support are the greatest gifts you can offer. Let her know that you are a safe place to talk about her feelings, that you will always have time to hear her, and that you will never forget that she is a grieving mom.

Check out my website for some other thoughtful options for supporting moms after miscarriage.