When a Child Grieves: Helping Kids Make Sense of Loss & The Hope of Heaven with Annie F. Downs, Ep. 268

November 06, 2025
00:00 38:49
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When tragedy strikes, adults struggle to make sense of it, but for children, the confusion and pain can feel overwhelming. In this deeply moving episode, Annie F. Downs sits down with Drs. Zach & Tim Clinton to talk about the story behind her new children’s book, Where Did TJ Go?, written after her family experienced the heartbreaking loss of her nephew, TJ. Together, they explore what it means to grieve honestly, talk to children about death and heaven, and embrace the kind of compassion that “suffers with.” Annie shares powerful insights on how to navigate the messiness of grief, the healing power of presence, and the truth that while loss changes everything, the hope of eternity changes how we see it. Whether you’re a parent, pastor, counselor, or simply someone walking through loss, this episode offers space for your sorrow and points your heart toward the unshakable hope we have in Christ.

Links:

Visit Annie’s Website: https://www.anniefdowns.com/

Pick Your Copy of Where Did TJ Go?: https://wheredidtjgo.com/

Pick Up A Copy of One of Annie’s Other Best-Selling Books: https://www.anniefdowns.com/books/

Listen to her That Sounds Fun Podcast: https://www.anniefdowns.com/thatsoundsfun/

Listen to her Let’s Read The Gospels Podcast: https://www.anniefdowns.com/letsreadthegospels/

Listen to Annie’s miniBFF Podcast: https://www.anniefdowns.com/minibffpodcast/

Find Christ-Centered Care & Counsel Today: www.christiancareconnect.com

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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Meet Your Host
Dr. Zach Clinton earned his master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling and currently serves as the Vice President of the American Association of Christian Counselors. He co-hosts with his dad, Dr. Tim Clinton, the daily national radio program, Life, Love Faith, and Family. He also hosts the Built Different podcast and is president & host of Ignite Men's Impact Weekend, an annual 2-day conference that gathers almost 10,000 men for fellowship, encouragement, instruction, and praise.

A Licensed Resident Counselor and former Division 1 college baseball player, Zach is a recognized growing authority and voice on performance, motivational psychology, and mental health for today’s generations. His mission is to remind people that they are never out of the fight! Zach is the proud husband to his lovely wife, Evelyn, and they make their home in Lynchburg, VA.

You can find more from Zach at zachclinton.com.
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