Grief is a natural response to loss, and it can be a challenging experience for both children and adults. Coping with grief is a process that takes time, patience, and support. For children, it can be especially difficult to understand and express their emotions during this time. In this blog, I'll discuss how children cope with grief and what parents can do to support them.
Expressing Emotions
Children may express their grief through a range of emotions such as sadness, anger, confusion, and fear. It's important to allow children to express their emotions freely and to listen to what they have to say without judgment. Encourage them to express their feelings through art, writing, or talking to someone they trust.
Understanding Death
Children's understanding of death depends on their age and development. Younger children may not understand that death is permanent or may have a magical thinking that the person will come back. Older children may understand the permanence of death, but may struggle with the finality of the loss. It's important to talk to children about death in a way that is appropriate for their age and understanding.
Maintaining Routines
Maintaining a routine can be helpful for children who are coping with grief. Routines provide structure and predictability, which can help children feel more secure and stable during a difficult time. Parents can try to maintain normal activities such as going to school, participating in extracurricular activities, and spending time with friends and family.
Seeking Support
Seeking support from family, friends, or a professional can be beneficial for children who are coping with grief. Children may benefit from talking to a therapist who specialises in grief counselling or attending a support group with other children who have experienced a similar loss.
Honouring the Memory
Honouring the memory of the person who has died can be a meaningful way for children to cope with their grief. Parents can encourage children to create a memory book, plant a tree or a garden, or make a special craft or drawing to honour the person's memory. It's important to involve children in the process and allow them to contribute their ideas. Celebrate their lives by sharing stories and memories with others, looking at photos, or creating a memory book. Remembering the happy times can help you find comfort and support during this difficult time.
In conclusion, coping with grief is a challenging process for both children and adults. Children may express their emotions in a range of ways, struggle to understand death, benefit from maintaining routines, seek support, and find comfort in honoring the memory of the person who passed away. Parents can support their children by being patient, understanding, and providing them with opportunities to express themselves and seek support. With time and support, children can learn to cope with their grief and find a path forward.
Useful websites and resources to explore:
Winstons Wish - Giving hope to bereaved children
Activities for bereaved children and young people | Download for free | Winston's Wish (winstonswish.org). Telephone: 08088 020 021.
The Laura Centre
Nelson's Journey (App)
Books
When Dinosaurs Die – A Guide To Understanding Death, Laurie Krasny Brown & Marc Brown
I Miss You – A First Look At Death, Pat Thomas
The Memory Tree, Britta Teckentrup
The Huge Bag Of Worries, Virginia Ironside
The Crab & The Whale, Mark Pallis & Christiane Kerr
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