How to Help Children Cope With the Death of a Mother or Loved One
Losing a loved one is a difficult part of life, but for a child the death of a mother or other close family member is a life-changing event that can cause serious emotional difficulties. Knowing how to respond appropriately to such a loss is important. Grief counseling for the child and other family members is recommended but, in everyday interactions, with a grieving child support is the most important aspect.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Reassure the child that they are safe and will be taken care of whatever the upheaval the death has brought. Children need to know basic needs are going to be met and that their need for security will be met.
-
2
Be direct in your communication with the child. Don't avoid questions, even if they are difficult to answer. Be as honest as you can. Try to speak in clear ways, and use concrete words, avoiding phrases and language which will confuse a child.
-
-
3
Make sure the child understands he is not to blame for anything and to have no guilt in the loss and shouldn't feel guilty for any negative feelings he may have, such as anger.
-
4
Maintain a normal routine as much as possible. This is another way of helping a child to feel safe and cared for, as well.
-
5
Allow a child to attend the funeral, no matter the age of the child, if that is something the child expresses a desire to do. Along those lines, if a child feels like crying, never try to stop them. If a child isn't acting sad, don't try to force them to grieve, either. A child will go through many moods and stages and imposing a schedule or a way to grieve is not helpful but rather harmful.
-
6
Pay attention to how a child plays. Many fears, thoughts and emotions are expressed through a child's play, stories or artwork.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
