FAQs About Grief

Coping with the death of a loved one is incredibly challenging at any age but can be especially difficult and confusing for children. As the adults in their lives, it's important we validate their grief experiences and provide age-appropriate support.
First, it's crucial to be open about what has happened. Use simple, clear language to explain the death without euphemisms like "passed away" or "lost." Children tend to take things very literally. Say something like "Grandma died, and her body has stopped working."
 

Encourage them to ask questions and be prepared to have the same conversations repeatedly as they process the permanence of the loss. Books can also serve as useful tools to prompt dialogue.

Allow children to express their feelings openly, whether sadness, anger, or anything else. Let them see you modeling healthy grieving too by taking space to cry if needed. Reassure them that all of their feelings are okay and normal.
 

Maintaining routines and creating new family rituals in memory of your loved one can also provide comfort during this upheaving time. Consider making crafts, looking at photos, or visiting special places together.
 

If children seem withdrawn, distracted or their behavior markedly changes, don't hesitate to consult a child therapist. Complicated grief reactions may require professional support to process.
 

Most importantly, remind them often that while very sad, the death is not their fault, and you will get through this together. Extra patience, affection and quality time can go a long way.
 

Grief looks different at all ages, but with open communication and honoring their unique experiences, children can learn resilience from a family's shared loss. Take care of yourselves too, as they will mirror how you approach this journey.