Few aspects are more stressful and emotional than losing a beloved member of your family. While adults can move through the process of grief on their own, eventually coming to terms with the loss, children may cope with the shock and sadness in a different way. Parents play a very important role in helping their children understand the death and guiding them through the grief, but it can be a confusing and difficult journey. Here are some important tips to keep in mind when providing grief support to a child and helping them cope with the loss of a loved one in a positive way.

3 Ways of Helping Kids Cope With Grief

1. Be Gentle But Direct

Using euphemisms to explain death to children might seem like a good way of softening the loss while providing grief support, but it can lead to confusion and fear in the long run. Terms such as “eternal sleep” can give the child a sense that the family member will wake up eventually or spark a deep fear of falling asleep in their own bed.

Parents should be gentle but frank when speaking about death to children. Using the words “died,” “dead,” and “death” are clear ways of explaining the loss. Even with a direct explanation, however, a child might still not fully understand. Because of this, having a dialogue and asking them questions can help eliminate a lingering sense of confusing or unease.

2. Allow Them to Express Their Feelings

Although they might not fully understand the loss, children still may experience the strong emotions surrounding the loss of a loved one. Kids can become easily upset by conversations about death and loss, and it’s important for a parent to recognize when it might be better to put the discussion on hold until a later time. It’s also important to show them it’s perfectly ok to express their feelings. Let them see you cry and speaking with friends for grief support to let them know how you are coping.

3. Let Creativity Help the Coping Process

Children thrive on creativity, and it can be a valuable grief support tool for helping them cope with a loss. Drawing, painting, writing, and even dancing and singing are all great outlets to allow a child to express their grief in a positive way. Be active in the process; ask them who they are drawing or what they’re singing about to help them come to terms with their expressions. If you sense any of the material they’re producing is troubling, seek outside help such as professional counselors or mental health services.

If your family has lost a loved one, Eackles-Spencer & Norton Funeral Home in Harpers Ferry, WV, is prepared to assist you in your time of grief. The funeral home has served the area for a century and offers a wide variety of services including cremation, funeral planning, and burial accouterments. The website also has a valuable grief support section for those coping with such a devastating experience. Call (304) 724-6500 and see how the funeral home can help you and your family today.