Below are some tips for helping children cope with death.  It is important to remember when reading these tips that children understand and respond to death differently.  No two children are alike.

• Grieving is a process that can take weeks, months, and years. Sometimes as a child matures, they will reprocess the death based on their new understanding and life experiences.

• Children need and want to talk about their loved one and their loss.  Be patient and a good listener.

• Don't hide information from children about a loved one's death.  Children often pick up pieces of information and imagine a reality far from the truth.

• Reassure the child they are loved and there is a plan for their care.  This is especially important if the loved one who died is a parent.

• Share your feelings and grief work with your child. A child will take comfort in knowing they are not alone in how they feel and they will look to the adults for role models in how to deal with grief.

• Provide encouragement and opportunities for children to ask questions and share their feelings.  It may be difficult at first for children to put their thoughts and feelings into words.  Be patient and present those sharing opportunities often.  When children are able to, they will share their feelings and seek the information they need.

 

Information is taken from the website Children’s Hospital-Greenville Health System.