McKelvie School Counseling - Grief Resources

Grief Resources

Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be a confusing and emotional experience for children. While children at this age understand what death is, they will still have several questions about the death of someone close to them.

It can be challenging to talk to your child about death, especially if the person who died was also close to you. Here are some ways to help your child through this difficult time.

All children grieve differently. Some may be upset one moment, and appear fine the next. It does not mean that they have finished grieving. Take your child's lead in terms of what they need as they begin the grieving process.
Encourage your child to express their feelings to someone, whether it is to you or another trusted adult. They might express their feelings verbally, though writing, through art, or through play.
Use direct language and avoid euphemisms. Kids are extremely literal, and hearing that a loved one “went to sleep” can be scary.
Monitor their emotions and their behavior and intervene, as needed. After suffering a loss, you might notice a change in mood, loss of interest in preferred activities, academic decline, difficulty concentrating, or peer issues.
Stick to routines as much as possible. It helps your child feel safe and secure.
Do not ignore your own grief. Model healthy ways to deal with loss and big emotions.
Help your child share memories and stories of the person who died.

Please refer to the below resources for additional information, tips, and support. Please reach out to your child's school counselor if you or your child need additional support.