Helping children through loss and grief
🔵 Wellness practice
Children grieve too, but they may show it differently from adults. A child may be sad one moment and want to play the next. That is normal.
How to talk about it
- Use simple, honest words. Gentle, clear words are easier for young children to understand than phrases like “went to sleep”, which can confuse or frighten them.
- Answer questions as they come, even the same question many times.
- Share your feelings. It is fine for children to see you sad. Tell them, “I’m sad because I miss Grandma.”
- Reassure them. Explain who will look after them and that the loss was not their fault.
Ways to remember together
- Look at photos and tell stories.
- Draw a picture or write a letter to the person.
- Include children in family prayers or rituals in a way that suits their age.
Keep routines
Regular meals, school and bedtime help a grieving child feel safe.
When to seek help
Speak to a doctor or school counsellor if, after some weeks, a child cannot sleep, stops eating, cannot manage school, withdraws from everyone, or talks about wanting to be with the person who died.