Kaliyah Coa went missing after entering the water close to Barge House Causeway in North Woolwich on March 31.
After a large-scale search in the waters since her disappearance, a body was discovered in Maritime Quay, Isle of Dogs, just after 9am on April 13.
The Metropolitan Police has confirmed that the body recovered is Kaliyah.
In a heart wrenching statement, the family said: “Our hearts are broken and our lives will never be the same. We were blessed to have Kaliyah, even if it was for such a short time. She will be missed so much. Kaliyah went to a birthday party and never returned home to her family.
“The family would like to thank all those who were involved in the search and recovery of Kaliyah.
“We sincerely hope that everyone will respect our wishes to be given the space and time to grieve as a family.”
An inquest into her death is due to open on Friday (May 2).
The 11-year-old went missing in the Thames after she had been playing during a school inset day.
Residents discovered that a girl had entered the River Thames after her friends were heard shouting and screaming.
Shaleen Rajaendram, 59, who lives in Barge House Road told the PA news agency: “I saw suddenly two kids were coming out to the top of the bridge, I said ‘what happened?’
“Then they said ‘one of my friends was playing in the water, one of my friends has gone into the water and she’s gone underneath and we can’t find her’.”
The girl returned home while the boy showed Ms Rajaendram where it took place.
“The water is very high”, Ms Rajaendram said, adding that the causeway that appeared to be covered in moss was very slippery.
Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, who led the Met’s investigation, added: “This tragic accident took away a little girl who was loved by many. Our specialist officers will continue to support Kaliyah’s family as they process this heart-breaking news.
“I echo her family’s request for privacy while they navigate the difficult road ahead, and urge the public to refrain from wholly inaccurate speculation both on and offline.
“I would like to extend my thanks to our search and recovery teams, supported by blue light partners. I know the local community has been deeply impacted by this incident and also thank them for their support.”
