It’s so, so hard to have to tell your son or daughter that their grandfather, grandmother, or parent has died. We dread it so much that we avoid it, but this is a time when our children need us to most. They need us to be clear. They need us to answer their questions.
How Do You Tell a Child That a Loved One Has Died?
Keep it simple. Use “died”, not “He is sleeping.”
Allow your child to express raw feelings freely or ask questions.
Answer questions honestly and simply. Do not go into detail, unless asked.
If the death was due to a violent crime, explain that they are safe now, nd you will do all you can to make sure they stay safe.
Offer a comfort object–blanket, doll, teddy bear. Even if they’re “older,” something cuddly can reduce anxiety.
If the body is suitable for viewing, allow the child to see your deceased loved one, if requested. Prepare the child for what he or she will see.
Tell your child what will be happening in the next few days.
Give your child choices in what to do. Some children want to go to school the day of the death–it’s comforting and feels “normal.” Give them a choice. Whenever they return, inform the school of the death before your child returns.This makes their teachers and classmates more sensitive. Most schools have a school counselor that can also assist and be made aware of the situation.
Reassure your child that he or she will be cared for and explain the plan.
Children sometimes open up easier if they’re doing something with their hands–playing cars or helping bake cookies–it can take awhile for them to feel safe–and they feel less on the spot if they don’t have to look at you but can pretend to be “busy” with their hands.
In the United States, approximately 4.8 million children under 18
are grieving the death loss of a parent.
Don’t Know How to Talk To Your Child: Here’s some Easy Conversation Starters:
I’m sorry your grandmother/papa/mom/dad/sister died.
What was your dad/mom/brother like?
Tell me about your__________.
What was his favorite food/book/thing you did together?
What do you miss the most? What is the hardest time of day for you?
I cannot know how you feel, but I remember how I felt when my __________ died.
Whenever you want to talk about it, I’m here.
I’m thinking about you especially today because I’m aware that today is your mother’s birthday (anniversary of the death, your birthday, etc).
If you don’t want to talk, we can still spend time together.
Words That Can Hurt:
“I know just how you feel: (Do you? Everyone’s sorrow is different. “You’ll get over it. It will be okay. Don’t think about it.” “Don’t cry. It’s not your fault.” “God took him so he wouldn’t be in pain.” “Tears won’t bring her back. Be strong.” “Forget about it. You are the man/woman of the house now.” “You should feel: ….(proud, relieved, happy, sad, etc.)
Children May Express Grief Differently Than Adults:
Children have even a greater capacity to push away painful thoughts. Their emotions may experience highs and lows. They may laugh inappropriately–even at the memorial service. Don’t think this is because they don’t care. It’s difficult for a child to figure out how to handle their emotions. They may avoid sleep–or a teen may sleep all the time. They may zone out and not seem to hear anyone talking to them.
They may become clingy or panic if you’re not home on time or don’t pick them up on time. They may act rough or violent toward a sibling or friend. Defiantly disobey. Teens may become daredevils–drive fast, extreme sports, breaking and entering–anything to feel “alive”
They may even try to “test” your love.
When Do You Seek Professional Help?
When the symptoms (lack of sleep, depression, aggression) continue for weeks or months and grow in intensity.
When they can no longer function in school or around other people
When they isolate themselves for too long
When they become dangerous to themselves or others
They fixate on death, experiment on animals, or are exhibiting cruel behavior
What do you do if you suspect your child or teen is not handling grief well?
Talk to the school counselor, your pediatrician, or clergy
Get a recommendation for a therapist who has helped children through grief.
Don’t settle for just a prescription. Talking and expressing their emotions is crucial to the healing process.
Don’t go just one or two times and think your child is “better.” Follow through and be consistent.
The Best Advice?
Be patient. Expect some some highs and lows. Share your own grief journey. Listen. Reassure. Be there. Provide help if or when it’s needed. Let them know it’s okay not to be able to handle this all by yourself–we all need each other. Be understanding of yourself. You’re grieving too.
Carol O’Dell
Author, Mothering Mother
Helpful sites:
www.childrensgriefnet.org
www.kidsaid.com
Tags: grief, hope
