Nursery World - A parent's guide to dealing with bereavement

Many children experience bereavement, whether it is the death of a much-loved pet, a grandparent or sibling. There is no one way for adults to respond, but there are certain things that need to be carefully considered. Do you think my child understands what has happened?

Do you think my child understands what has happened?

Children's perception and understanding of death will vary due to a number of factors such as age, emotional maturity and attitudes at home. Answering a child's questions about death and dying can be difficult, but taking time to discuss this important issue will give a child the comfort and reassurance that they need. It would be unnatural for adults not to show grief or sadness, too. Children often want to help and if they know why people are sad, it can put their own grief and sense of loss into context.

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