Helping Children with Grief and Loss

Dealing with a death at any age is difficult, even as a young child. How to properly handle your children when the death of a loved one occurs is also difficult. We at Circle of Life Cremation and Burial Centre Inc. have experience helping people of any age deal with their grief and loss. See our tips below regarding how to help children through this difficult time.

Informing Your Child of a Loved One’s Death

Children as young as three years old understand the concept of saying goodbye. Letting the child know immediately when someone in the family has died will help prevent your child from hearing it second-hand. When doing so, use simple, clear words and a normal voice – not a whisper, which can seem scary to a young child. Try to be as honest as possible with the explanation, keeping in mind your child’s level of understanding (depending on their age). Because children can interpret things literally, avoid euphemisms like “lost” or “sleeping.”

In the weeks and months following, your child may repeatedly ask the same questions. This is normal and is used by your child to ensure them that the factual event of a loved one’s death has not changed.

Be Open with Feelings

Letting your child know that they – and you – may experience sadness for a while can help during this time. Be sure to give lots of affection and security as well as assurance that your entire family will be here to get through this together. Encouraging your child to express their emotions through art and play, both verbally and nonverbally, can be helpful throughout the grieving process.

Childrens’ Attendance at Funerals and Memorials

Have an open conversation with your child about funeral services and allow them to join in for whatever portion (if any) they would like to. Older children can even take part in planning a memorial. Share your family’s beliefs about what happens to a person after death. Be sure to also focus on the happy memories of when the family member was alive.

Grief Differs Depending on the Child

No two children are alike when it comes to dealing with their grief. The child’s age, how close they felt to the person who died and the support received from family members and friends determines how children cope with loss. Realize that a death can directly affect a child’s day-to-day life and give your child time to heal from the loss.

Need More Tips? We Can Help

Most important of all, be honest with your child and encourage questions. Creating an atmosphere of comfort and openness is important so that your child is comfortable expressing whatever feelings they are experiencing. For more tips and advice, feel free to contact the professional staff at Circle of Life Cremation and Burial Centre Inc. With years of experience dealing with difficult situations, we are here to help your family get through their loss.