How do you help your kids cope with the loss of a friend? It’s one of the worst things that can happen to a child, and one of the most painful moments as a parent. While you can’t erase your kids’ pain, you can help them cope in healthy ways as they adjust to life without their friends. Here are three ways to help your kids cope with the loss of a friend.
Listen
Adults need to be mindful of how much children hear and see and acknowledge that they may be hearing or seeing something that we don’t know about. If we know that a close friend has passed away, we can acknowledge it by saying something like, I know you’re sad about [the friend who died]. I miss him too. He was such a great kid! I remember how much fun he was when he came over for dinner last time. I wish he could come back so we could play video games again. In this situation, you can keep kids with many things like getting them to play mobile games. Minecraft is a really good game for kids and parents are able to control the Parkour Minecraft Servers by themselves
Let Them Mourn Themselves
In many ways, grief is unique for every individual. While some people want an explanation for their loved one’s passing, others find it comforting not to know. If your child needs time alone after learning of a friend’s death, respect that need. Let them spend time thinking about how they feel and figuring out what comfort they can take from their loss—and then give them space to mourn however they see fit. Grief does not have its own timetable—it unfolds as long as it needs to, even if that means years later. Above all else, let your children grieve in whatever way feels right for them so they can begin healing. You might be surprised at how much it helps you too!
Be Prepared to Answer Questions
The death of a friend can be particularly shocking for children who have not had prior exposure to death. Many children may struggle with an inability to understand why their friend is no longer around. They may also have questions about what happens after someone dies. Preparation is key when it comes to talking with kids about their friend’s passing. If possible, try sharing your own experiences with loss at an age-appropriate level. You don’t want to overwhelm them, but you do want them to know that they aren’t alone in how they feel.
The most important thing you can do for your children during difficult times is to be there for them. Mourning isn’t easy, but helping each other through it is something all people should do—regardless of age. If you or your kids are struggling with grief, talk about it. Sometimes that’s enough to make it seem less daunting. Honoring their friend’s death with gifts such as Laurelbox’s bereavement gifts is another way to share support for each other. Other times, professional help might be necessary; if you think your child could benefit from therapy, talk with your pediatrician about what services are available in your area. The sooner you can open up and start talking about how you’re feeling (even if it makes everyone uncomfortable), the better off everyone will be in overcoming death’s sting.
Comments are closed.