When a loved one dies, children feel and show their grief in different ways. How
kids cope with the loss depends on things like their age, how close they felt to the
person who died, and the support they receive.
Here are some things parents can do to help a child
who has lost a loved one:
When talking about death, use simple, clear words. To break the
news that someone has died, approach your child in a caring way. Use words that are
simple and direct. For example, "I have some sad news to tell you. Grandma died today."
Pause to give your child a moment to take in your words.
Listen and comfort. Every child reacts differently to learning
that a loved one has died. Some kids cry. Some ask questions. Others seem not to react
at all. That's OK. Stay with your child to offer hugs or reassurance. Answer your
child's questions or just be together for a few minutes.
Put emotions into words. Encourage kids to say what they're thinking
and feeling in the days, weeks, and months following the loss. Talk about your own
feelings: It helps kids be aware of and feel comfortable with theirs. Say things like,
"I know you're feeling very sad. I'm sad, too. We both loved Grandma so much, and
she loved us, too."
Tell your child what to expect. If the death of a loved one means
changes in your child's life, head off any worries or fears by explaining what will
happen. For example, "Aunt Sara will pick you up from school like Grandma used to."
Or, "I need to stay with Grandpa for a few days. That means you and Dad will be home
taking care of each other. But I'll talk to you every day, and I'll be back on Sunday."
Talk about funerals and rituals. Allow children to join in rituals
like viewings, funerals, or memorial services. Tell your child ahead of time what
will happen. For example, "Lots of people who loved Grandma will be there. We will
sing, pray, and talk about Grandma's life. People might cry and hug. People will say
things like, 'I'm sorry for your loss,' or, 'My condolences.' Those are polite and
kind things to say to the family at a funeral. We can say, 'Thank you,' or, 'Thanks
for coming.' You can stay near me and hold my hand if you want."
You might need to explain burial or cremation. For example, "After the funeral,
there is a burial at a cemetery. The person's body is in a casket (or coffin) that
gets buried in the ground with a special ceremony. This can feel like a sad goodbye,
and people might cry." Share your family's beliefs about what happens to a person's
soul or spirit after death.
Explain what happens after the service as a way to show that people will feel better.
For example, "We all will go eat food together. People will laugh, talk, and hug some
more. Focusing on the happy memories about Grandma and on the good feeling of being
together helps people start to feel better."
Give your child a role. Having a small, active role can help kids
master an unfamiliar and emotional situation such as a funeral or memorial service.
For example, you might invite your child to read a poem, pick a song to be played,
gather some photos to display, or make something. Let kids decide if they want to
take part, and how.
Help your child remember the person. In the days and weeks ahead,
encourage your child to draw pictures or write down favorite stories of their loved
one. Don't avoid mentioning the person who died. Recalling and sharing happy memories
helps heal grief and activate positive feelings.
Respond to emotions with comfort and reassurance. Notice if your
child seems sad, worried, or upset in other ways. Ask about feelings and listen. Let
your child know that it takes time to feel better after a loved one dies. Some kids
may temporarily have trouble concentrating or sleeping, or have fears or worries.
Support groups and counseling
can help kids who need more support.
Help your child feel better. Provide the comfort your child needs,
but don't dwell on sad feelings. After a few minutes of talking and listening, shift
to an activity or topic that helps your child feel a little better. Play, make art,
cook, or go somewhere together.
Give your child time to heal from the loss. Grief is a process
that happens over time. Be sure to have ongoing conversations to see how your child
is feeling and doing. Healing doesn't mean forgetting about the loved one. It means
remembering the person with love, and letting loving memories stir good feelings that
support us as we go on to enjoy life.
Date reviewed: September 2016