How to Help a Child Deal With the Death of a Grandparent
For most children the death of a grandparent is their first real brush with mortality.
When a grandparent dies, kids can display have a variety of responses. Some of their reactions come immediately, whilst others show up later down the line.
What to Do When a Grandparent Dies
Every child dealing with death needs the support of understanding adults. Most children will experience the death of someone close to them at some point in their childhood. Talking about death and reassuring your children can help them process what has happened.
What to say to a child when a grandparent dies?
Tell your child that you are sorry for their loss and acknowledge their sadness. Answer any questions they may have honestly, keeping it simple and brief.
It’s ok to share your own feelings with your child. You can tell them that you miss the grandparent too. Sharing will help your child feel less alone.
What’s the normal grieving process for a child who’s grandparent dies?
Kids who are grieving may exhibit certain behaviors for a period of time. Most commonly, kids will be extra clingy, exhibit developmental regression, fall behind in school, sleep poorly, have trouble concentrating, be anxious, struggle with feelings of abandonment, act out or feel guilty.
These behaviors are normal and will resolve on their own over time. However, if your child excessively imitates the dead person, believes they are talking to or seeing the dead person, or suggests they want to join the dead person, they may require professional support.
How can I help a toddler that has lost a grandparent?
Toddlers do best with very simple and brief explanations and answers to their questions. Toddlers may repeat questions over and over, so patience and consistency is important. Rituals like carrying a photo of their loved one, talking about special memories or favorite things about the person they love, and reading age-appropriate books about death and dying can be especially helpful for toddlers who are processing death.
For help or advice contact us at Remembrance Funerals.
