Helping Children Navigate Grief

As a mother, there’s nothing more heartbreaking than seeing your child in pain, especially the kind that comes with loss. Whether it’s the loss of a pet, a loved one, or even a major change like moving homes, grief can be overwhelming for little hearts. It’s easy to feel helpless when your child is struggling, but I’ve learned that even the smallest gestures of love and support can make all the difference.

Children experience grief differently than adults. They may not have the words to express their feelings, so they show them in other ways—through tears, anger, or even unexpected silliness. Some days, they may seem perfectly fine, and the next, a wave of sadness can hit them out of nowhere. It’s all part of how they process the big feelings they don’t fully understand yet.

Children experience grief differently than adults. They may not have the words to express their feelings, so they show them in other ways—through tears, anger, or even unexpected silliness.

Here are a few things I’ve found helpful when supporting children through grief:

Hold Space for Their Feelings

Let your child know it’s okay to feel whatever they’re feeling—sadness, anger, confusion, or even relief. Grief doesn’t always look like tears, and that’s okay. Simply sitting with them and saying, “I’m here for you, no matter what,” can create a safe space where they feel seen and loved.

Use Simple, Honest Words

It can be tempting to sugarcoat the truth to protect their innocence, but clear and age-appropriate explanations are better. Instead of saying someone has “gone to sleep,” try gently explaining, “They’ve died, which means their body has stopped working, and we won’t see them anymore.” This honesty helps avoid confusion and builds trust.

Lean Into Comforting Rituals

Children find comfort in routines and rituals. Light a candle together, make a memory box, or draw pictures of your loved one. These small acts can help them express their feelings and create a sense of connection.

Show Them It’s Okay to Grieve

It’s powerful for children to see you express your emotions, too. By letting them know it’s okay to cry or feel sad, you’re teaching them that grief is a normal part of life and that it’s safe to share those feelings.

Keep Checking In

Grief doesn’t have a timeline. Even months or years later, your child may bring up memories or questions. Be patient and open to those moments—they’re opportunities for healing and connection.

Most importantly, remind your child that they are not alone. Grief can feel like a big, scary storm, but with love, patience, and gentle support, they’ll find their way through. As parents, we can’t take away their pain, but we can hold their hand and walk with them every step of the way.

With love,
A fellow mother 💕

Please get in touch with Leonie if you would like support, as you navigate grief of any kind, be it yours or your families’.