Tips on Grief and Children

Facial expressions can be an indicator of feelings of sorrow and grief.

Dealing with grief is different for every person no matter their age. Children have difficulty dealing with grief because of their lack of understanding of death. Also, children will not have much if any experience dealing with grief. Whether it is a loss of a pet or a person, children will experience symptoms of grief. It is important to identify signs of grief in children and to address them in positive ways.

Recognize a Child's Grief

Grieving children may pick fights with their siblings.

According to The Center For Loss & Life Transition, behaviors expressed by grieving children include: picking fights, acting lethargic and getting easily upset. It is important to give a grieving child enough attention for these behaviors to be seen. If a child's mood changes dramatically after a death, it will be easy to identify the problem. If a child does not seem to change around you, it will be necessary to contact her school to see if there are changes in the classroom.

Have Fun

Encouraging active behavior will help a child who is mourning a loss.

When a child is grieving and showing sadness, positive activities will work as a distraction. Although you do not want to distract the child forever, playing games can have a positive impact on mood. This will help the child be happier and more open to conversing his feelings to you. Playing a game outdoors will help keep children happy and healthy. Keeping a child active and eating regularly is important during saddening times.

Start a New Activity

Craft projects done together can create a bond over a newly shared hobby.

Introducing a child to a new idea will provide a positive inspiration in her life. Having grieving children join a new organization might help them start a new chapter in their life. This will teach children that life will go on, and things will get better. Finding an outlet for children to express their feelings such as art will be a positive way to deal with grief.

Spend Quality Time Together

Spending time at home with children shows you care.

During a time of grief, children may feel alone and lost. If you do not usually set aside special one-on-one time with your child, try to arrange an hour each day during this time of need. Being there for a child really means being physically present. A child will know you care more through the time you spend with him versus the things you say to him.

References

• Center for Loss & Life Transition: Healing The Adult Child's Grieving Heart

Resources

• WAYSIDE: In aftermath of tragedy, help your child through grieving process