Grief: Helping children with grief
Why is it important for children to express their grief?
The way parents and other caregivers help a child who is grieving often lays the foundation for how the child will react to losses as an adult.
It's important to help a child grieve because:
- Their feelings are real. It is important for adults to acknowledge that each child has unique feelings after a major loss.
- Their feelings need to be expressed. Children who do not express their feelings may develop other problems, such as behavior problems or physical illnesses.
- Their concerns need to be addressed. Each child's concerns after a major loss differ, depending on the child's age and emotional development. For example, after the loss of a parent, a young child may ask who will take him or her to school. It is important for adults to listen to a child's concerns and answer any questions or concerns.
- Their misconceptions need to be clarified. Children often do not know why losses occur. They may think that they caused the loss or that they are being punished for something they did. Correcting such misconceptions may relieve a child's anxiety and fear.
- Information needs to be shared. Sometimes parents and other caring adults think it is best not to tell children what is happening after a loss. Not telling children about a major loss may cause them to develop unrealistic fears and concerns. Children may also feel insecure because they know the adults are not being honest. Not telling a child that a loved one has died may prolong the child's grief.
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| Author: | Jeannette Curtis | Last Updated: November 12, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Sidney Zisook, MD - Psychiatry | |
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