HOW TO TALK TO CHILDREN ABOUT GRIEF & LOSS
- Use clear, simple language and share the facts
- Approach your child in a caring way. Use words that are simple and direct. For example, "I have some sad news to share with you about one of the kids in your school.”
- Listen to your child
- Every child reacts differently when learning that someone has died. Some kids cry, some ask questions and others seem not to react at all. Remember to listen to what your child needs and notice their behaviors as time goes on.
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- Validate their emotions
- Notice if your child seems sad, worried, or upset in other ways. Ask about their
- feelings and remind them it is normal and okay to feel the way they do.
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- Allow them to ask questions on their own time
- If they ask questions and you do not have answers, it is okay to say, “I don’t know.”
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- Respond with comfort and reassurance
- Let your child know that it takes time to feel better after someone dies. Some kids may temporarily have trouble concentrating or sleeping or have fears or worries. Support groups and counseling are available for kids who need more support.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & SUPPORT
National Alliance For Grieving Children
https://childrengrieve.org/find-support/9-find-support/45-programs-in-pennsylvania
Camp Koala
(717) 258-1122
https://www.campkoala.org
The Caring Place
(866) 613-4673
http://www.highmarkcaringplace.com
Together Laughing and Crying (TLC)
Camp Dragonfly
(717) 782-2300
https://hospiceofcentralpa.org/index.php/services-sub/camp-dragonfly
Drew Michael Taylor Foundation/Drew's Hope
(717) 532-8922
http://www.drewmichaeltaylor.org
Mrs. Jenna Carlson, School Counselor
Google Voice Phone: 717-585-0297
Email: jcarlson@cvschools.org
Website: https://counselorcarlson.webnode.com/