This archive report was first published on 7 July 2019.
Helping Children Understand Death and Grief ¶
Death is a universal experience that can be difficult for both children and adults to navigate. Dr. Shelley Gilbert, founder of Grief Encounter, has experienced the pain of losing her mother at the age of four and her father five years later. Her personal experience informs the important work her charity does to support children and their families through the grieving process.
Dr. Gilbert emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where children feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their emotions. She shares her wisdom on how parents can help children understand death and the stages of grief.
Published on July 7, 2019
10 Essential Tips for Parents ¶
- Don't avoid discussing death with your child, as this can create a sense of fear and uncertainty.
- Use honest words when explaining death, avoiding euphemisms that can be confusing.
- It's okay to say 'I don't know' when faced with questions about death that you're not prepared to answer.
- Offer to explain more about death in the future, keeping the conversation open.
- Accept that children may be emotionally and psychologically damaged by bereavement, and provide them with opportunities to express their grief.
- Allow children to participate in rituals and ceremonies that help them process their emotions.
- Make a memory bank of special moments with the deceased loved one.
- Be aware of secondary losses that can occur after a death, such as changes in family dynamics or financial struggles.
- Involve the entire family and support system in the grieving process.
- Recognize the importance of giving children the language to express their grief and providing them with opportunities to do so.
