Supporting Children and Teens in Grief: Age-Appropriate Strategies and Resources
Understanding the Unique Challenges
Children and teens experience grief differently than adults. They may struggle to express their emotions, feel confused or isolated, and experience physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches. It’s important to recognize these unique challenges and provide age-appropriate support.
Age-Appropriate Strategies
- Preschoolers (3-5 years old):
- Use simple language and avoid euphemisms like “passed away.”
- Allow them to express their feelings through play or drawing.
- Spend quality time together engaging in activities they enjoy.
- Elementary school children (6-11 years old):
- Encourage open communication and provide opportunities to ask questions.
- Validate their feelings and let them know it’s okay to feel sad or angry.
- Consider attending a support group for children.
- Teenagers (12-18 years old):
- Offer opportunities for independent exploration and self-expression.
- Respect their privacy and allow them to grieve in their own way.
- Encourage involvement in activities that promote healing and growth.
Resources for Children and Teens
- The Dougy Center: https://www.dougy.org/
- The Compassionate Friends: https://www.compassionatefriends.org/find-support/chapters/chapter-locator/
- The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: https://afsp.org/
- Children’s Grief Center: https://cgcelpaso.org/
Additional Tips
- Be patient and understanding. It may take time for children and teens to process their grief.
- Avoid making promises you can’t keep. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know the answer to that, but we can learn more together.”
- Seek professional help if needed. A therapist can provide additional support and guidance.
By understanding the unique challenges faced by children and teens in grief and providing age-appropriate strategies and resources, you can help them navigate this difficult time and find healing.
