- Try to keep things the same as much as you can. Routines like mealtimes, bedtime, and school help children feel safe.
- Children can feel happy and sad very quickly. One minute they might cry, the next they might play. This is normal. It’s how they deal with big feelings.
- Keep talking about the person who has died. Saying their name and sharing memories helps children understand and remember.
- Answer their questions honestly. Use simple words they know. It’s okay to say “I don’t know” if you’re not sure.
Bereavement Hub WIP
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Supporting Children
When someone dies, it can be very hard for children to understand what has happened. They might not know what death means, but they can feel when adults around them are sad or upset.
Every child is different. Some may ask questions; others may stay quiet. How they react depends on their age, what they’ve been through before, and their personality.
It’s important to tell children the truth in a simple and clear way. This helps them understand what has happened. Also, let their teacher or nursery staff know. They can keep an eye on the child and help them at school or nursery. They can also give advice on how to support the child in class.
Other children might talk about the death if they’ve heard adults speak about it. Try to tell your child what has happened before they hear it from someone else.
Let your child see that you are sad and miss the person who has died. This helps them know it’s okay to feel upset and show their feelings too.
There are books and websites that can help. Some are made just for children. Others are for teenagers and young adults who want to talk to someone after someone has died. Child Bereavement UK is a charity that helps children, young people, and families when someone important has died. The offer free support on the phone and live chat and their website lists all the different books and websites that can help.