Mijn Gouden Traan

Mijn Gouden Traan is an education-focused practice founded by Esther Ruël Engelman, a teacher with twenty years of classroom experience and a bereavement and loss support professional. The brand helps schools make space for death, grief, and loss, and offers direction, inspiration, and practical resources for bringing these subjects into education. Its materials and tools are designed to support teachers and classes, while its training, courses, and guidance help educators approach difficult conversations with greater knowledge and confidence.

A central offering is the Rouwpaspoort, a resource intended to connect school and home, as well as teachers and children, and to create a supportive framework for grief and loss. Mijn Gouden Traan also offers a Kompasgesprek and shares information and inspiration through its blog. The practice’s approach recognizes that children’s life stories and experiences matter alongside academic learning. Through its work, Esther aims to help educators provide meaningful space for grieving children and their communities. The website also offers downloadable resources and a newsletter with tips for teachers seeking practical support.