Losing a loved one is one of the hardest experiences in life, and for children, it can be especially confusing and overwhelming. They may not fully understand what has happened or struggle to express their emotions. As parents, caregivers, or teachers, it’s essential to provide them with the support and tools they need to navigate their grief in a healthy way.
1. Create a Safe Space for Their Emotions
Children may express grief in ways that seem unexpected—through play, withdrawal, anger, or even moments of laughter. Let them know that all emotions are okay. Offer a listening ear, acknowledge their feelings, and reassure them that it’s okay to feel sad, confused, or even angry.
2. Use Simple, Honest Explanations
Avoid using euphemisms like “gone to sleep” or “passed away” as they can be confusing. Instead, use clear and age-appropriate language. For example, you might say, “Grandma died, which means her body stopped working, and we won’t see her anymore. But we will always remember her.”
3. Encourage Questions and Be Patient
Children may ask the same questions repeatedly as they process what has happened. Answer them honestly and gently. If you don’t know the answer, it’s okay to say, “I don’t know, but I’m here with you.”
4. Maintain Routines and Structure
Grief can make a child’s world feel unstable. Keeping a consistent routine—such as regular mealtimes, bedtime, and school activities—can provide them with a sense of security.
5. Allow Them to Express Grief in Their Own Way
Some children may want to talk about their loss, while others might prefer to express their feelings through drawing, writing, or playing. Encourage different forms of expression and provide activities that help them process their emotions.
6. Read Books That Help Explain Grief
Books can be a powerful way to help children understand and cope with loss. Stories like The Invisible String by Patrice Karst or Lifetimes: The Beautiful Way to Explain Death to Children by Bryan Mellonie can offer comfort and reassurance.
7. Find Ways to Honor and Remember Their Loved One
Creating a memory box, planting a tree, or looking at old photos together can help children feel connected to the person they’ve lost. Rituals like lighting a candle on special days can also provide comfort.
8. Seek Support When Needed
If a child’s grief seems overwhelming—such as prolonged withdrawal, intense anger, or major changes in behavior—consider seeking help from a counselor or grief specialist. There are also support groups and resources designed specifically for grieving children.
Grief Takes Time, but Healing Is Possible
There is no right or wrong way for a child to grieve, and healing happens at their own pace. By offering love, support, and open communication, you can help them navigate their emotions in a healthy and meaningful way.
At Jurni, we're working to bring these themes of grief, healing, and hope to life through an animated short film inspired by our story. If you’d like to support this project, please visit our Kickstarter campaign or learn more on the Jurni website. Together, we can create something meaningful for families navigating their own journeys.