Losing a loved one is never easy, but it can be even tougher for parents of young children who are facing this type of loss for the first time. While making funeral arrangements and processing your own grief, there are a few simple ways to help your child process their feelings in a healthy way.

3 Tips for Supporting a Grieving Child

1. Explain Everything Clearly

Depending on your child’s age, they may not fully grasp the concept of death. It’s important to use simple, yet clear, language when explaining what happened, without overwhelming them with too much information. In the days following a loss, you should also explain to them clearly what to expect as far as the funeral arrangements are concerned so they’re not surprised or nervous about what’s expected of them.

2. Listen & Answer Questions

Children grieve in different ways. Some want to know more information. Others simply want to cry or sit with the information for a while. Instead of pushing them to react in a specific way, follow their lead. Just let them know that you’re there if they want to talk or need support. Provide a shoulder to cry on if needed and answer any questions they have clearly and simply.

3. Involve Them in the Funeral Services

If your children express a desire to be involved in the funeral planning process, this could be a helpful part of the grieving process. Bringing them with you to pick out a casket or allowing them to tell a short story about their loved one during the funeral service could help them feel like they’re truly honoring the deceased’s memory. However, if they don’t express the desire to be involved in the funeral arrangements, don’t push it. They may need more time to process, so you can allow them to honor your loved one in another way later on.

If you need to make funeral arrangements for a loved one, the caring professionals at Dennis George Funeral Home in Cleves, OH, can help. The funeral home offers a beautiful setting for funerals and religious services. With more than 20 years of service, the staff serves families throughout the Miami County and Cincinnati area, providing funeral services that are completely customized for each individual. Visit the funeral home’s website for more information about their services. To speak with a funeral director, call (513) 941-6700.