Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences, but it's especially hard for children who may not fully understand what has happened. As a parent or caregiver, it's important to know how to help your child navigate the grieving process so they can start moving forward. Below are a few tips for helping a child deal with grief after the funeral of a loved one.

How to Help a Child Manage Grief

1. Encourage Open Communication

Being able to express emotions and thoughts is an essential part of the grieving process. To make navigating this difficult experience as easy as possible, create a safe space for your child to talk about their feelings.

Children sometimes have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, so encourage other forms of expression such as drawing, writing, or even playing with toys. Remind your child that it's okay to feel sad, angry, or confused, and that their emotions are valid.

2. Keep a Routine

After the loss of a loved one, a child's world can feel chaotic and out of control. One way to bring some stability back into their life is to establish a routine with regular meal times, bedtimes, and even playtime. A routine can help establish a sense of normalcy and provide a sense of security during a difficult time.

3. Seek Support

Grief is a process that takes time and support. If it seems that your child is struggling to cope, don’t hesitate to seek out professional support.

You might consider taking them to a therapist, counselor, or grief support group. Many funeral homes offer names of mental health professionals who specialize in guiding families throughout the grieving process.

Since 1932, Frederick Funeral Home has been helping families throughout the Cincinnati area celebrate their lost loved ones. Along with beautiful, customizable memorial options, their caring staff will also provide the emotional support your family needs. Visit their website to learn more about the grieving process, follow their Facebook for updates and news, or call (513) 522-3700 to speak with a funeral director today.