Death is an inevitable part of life and grief is a universal human process. Parents and carers cannot shield children from the pain of death and loss. However, we can all help children understand this loss and grieve.
Contact Barnardos Bereavement ServicesInforming children of the loss of a parent, sibling, close relative or friend can be very difficult. While parents and carers often want to protect children from further distress, child need to be told about death and helped to understand the effects of their loss. Some key tips to assist in this process:
Children of all ages can have reactions to grief. Common early responses are:
After the initial reaction, children could experience:
For more information please see our free ebooks for parents and children or contact our Bereavement Service.
(01) 473 2110 Open Monday to Thursday, 10am-12pm