The death of a loved one can be especially difficult for kids still learning how to process complex emotions. Understanding how to help a child cope with the grief brought on by this difficult experience will provide comfort and support. Here’s how to help a little one learn to manage their feelings before and after the funeral service.

How to Help a Child Process Grief

1. Create a Supportive Environment

When discussing death, one should maintain open communication with a child. This practice ensures the kid knows they can talk about their feelings. Because they’ll feel more comfortable with this knowledge, they will be more open to expressing their emotions.

Ask your child how they feel, listen to their stories, and comfort them to the best of your abilities. Reassure them that it’s normal to be sad and talk about their grief, allowing them to take their time in the grieving process and find their own way of coping.

2. Let Them Choose Whether to Attend the Funeral

A funeral service can be a memorable and meaningful way to provide closure for relatives and friends of the departed, no matter their age. However, some kids may not feel prepared for such an occasion.

Long before the event, explain that it can be a sad and intense experience and let your child know they can choose to attend it. They should have enough time to consider whether they feel ready for it.

3. Give Them Time

Loss can be a difficult and lengthy process at any age. For this reason, kids should have time to process their grief. Allow them to take a few days off from school or other activities to spend time with family or friends. They should have plenty of space to grieve, but some kids may need more support than others. In this case, consider visiting a counselor.

When you’re helping young family members come to terms with the loss of a loved one, count on TP White & Sons Funeral Home to help you with all other aspects of funeral planning. Serving families throughout Cincinnati, OH, for over 150 years, they’ll work closely with you to organize a funeral service that honors the departed and allows family members of all ages to grieve. Call (513) 231-7150 to discuss your needs with a team member, and visit them online to learn more about how they can help.