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Coping with grief is a learning process for everyone. Losing a loved one can cause immense sadness, as well as confusion and fear. For children, this is especially true. Dealing with the complex emotions brought on by grief or impending funerals is something no child should have to do alone. Below are some ways to be a comforting presence for a child in mourning.

How to Help a Child Through Grief

1. Be Direct

While many children are familiar with the concept of death, experiencing the loss of a loved one or acquaintance can be incredibly confusing. Children are very literal, so it’s best to avoid metaphors and euphemisms when providing explanations or comfort in a time of grief. Using honest, direct communication also allows the child to develop coping skills that will serve them later in life.

2. Be Age Appropriate

funeralA child’s understanding of grief will be very dependent on his or her age. Gauge what is appropriate and only volunteer necessary information rather than overwhelming the child with extensive fatality or funeral details. Allow the child to ask questions and provide clear responses that don’t add to their confusion. You may not be able to give them satisfying answers to every question and that’s okay. What matters most is being there to listen, respond, and support.

3. Encourage Self Expression

When a loved one dies, many are tempted to remove their name from a conversation to spare feelings or avoid sadness. This can actually be disruptive to the coping process, especially for children. Encourage the child to talk about the feelings they’re having and appropriately express your sadness as well. Ensure that the child knows he or she is supported and listened to through this difficult time.

 

Are you comforting a child during a time of loss? Family-oriented funeral providers can be a big help in dealing with the stress of planning a funeral for a deceased loved one. If you’re in the Dupo or Millstadt, IL, areas and are looking for reliable, knowledgeable assistance, Leesman Funeral Home is here to help. With years of experience in relating to families who’ve experienced loss, they provide caring, compassionate services to their beloved community and assist families in planning respectful services to honor a lost loved one. To learn about their pre-planning or burial services, call (618) 286-4511 to speak with a funeral director or visit their website for more information.

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