Children can find it very difficult to understand what has happened when someone dies.
Remember to tell their teacher or nursery teacher who will keep a particular eye on them in the early days after a death and will be able to suggest the best way to deal with this in the context of the whole class.
They will also have access to the advice of educational psychologists if they feel this might be helpful.
Some of the important things to remember are:
Helping children
Try and keep the security of familiar routines if you possibly can.
Remember children can change mood very quickly - being upset one moment and then playing normally the next. This is part of the way they cope but can be difficult for adults to adjust to.
Keep talking about the person who has died
Answer their questions honestly, using words they will understand.
Remember other children may hear their parents talking about the death if it is known in the local community and speak to your child about what has happened. It is important your child hears information from you first.
Remember other children may hear their parents talking about the death if it is known in the local community and speak to your child about what has happened. It is important your child hears information from you first.
Do not hide the fact they you are upset and miss the person who has died so that the children can feel comfortable showing their feelings too.
We can put you in contact with organisations who specialise in providing support to children who are grieving as well as their parents.
Page Last Updated : 01/07/08