It can be very painful to grieve the death of a parent while trying to parent and support your child as well.
In many cases a child’s first experience of death is that of a grandparent which makes it much more important to ensure your child understands the finality of it. Though that might seem a little harsh as we live in a society where we must protect our children at all costs, in the long run we are not protecting their overall well-being. Children need to make sense of the situation and so the truth is always best.
They do not need to know every little detail but using clear and appropriate language which explains the finality of death and ensuring the child knows they can ask questions to help them understand. Attending the memorial/funeral can be hugely beneficial and allowing them some choice in the decisions you make, such as choosing a special flower or poem can help them with saying goodbye. Having permission to cry and express their emotions as well as seeing you upset will help them to normalise their feelings.
We can provide a suitable book and a resource to help you support your child. To access this support please contact us.
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