How to Help a Grieving Child

HOW TO HELP KIDS GRIEVE Children begin grieving when they feel a loss, not when they hear about it. 1 Answer their questions honestly: HONESTY Avoid the use of euphemisms. 2) Stop talking about the loss if the child: Becomes agitated. Is fidgety. Refuses to make eye contact. 3) Children are concrete thinkers. Help yours believe the truth: "Grandma died at the hospital, but hospitals help many people feel better." "Grandpa died in his sleep, but you don't need to worry that you'll die in your sleep tonight." 4 Eradicate confusion by answering questions repeatedly: Repetitive questions are part of a child's grief work. Exercise patience while your child processes his emotions. 5 Watch their body language: Children communicate with their body. Consider reflecting their play style verbally to support their communication. To learn more about how you can help kids grieve in a healthy way, please contact us. The Center For Family Unity www.TheCenterForFamilyUnity.com 619.884.0601 N