Grief is an emotional reaction to a major loss. The words "sorrow" and "heartache" often are used to describe feelings of grief. Your child may feel grief after losing a beloved person, pet, place, or thing. It's also natural to feel grief when a valued way of life is lost, such as a home, a parent's job, or good health.
Your child may begin to grieve before a loss occurs. Your child may grieve for a loved one who is sick and dying. Children often feel the pain of loss before a big move or divorce.
There is no "normal" or "expected" period of time for grieving. Grief can't be predicted. Thoughts and feelings can come and go. Grief is different for each child.
The ways children express grief are often different from the way adults express it. Children aren't always able to use words to say what they feel. Instead, they express their feelings through behavior. Children adjust to loss and death in different ways as they grow and develop.
It's important for adults to listen to a child and answer any questions or concerns. To express their feelings, children need an adult who makes them feel safe and secure. Childcare providers, teachers, and school counselors may also be able to help your child.
Your child may feel grief when they lose a beloved person, pet, or thing. It is also natural to feel grief when a valued way of life is lost, such as a home, a parent's job, or good health. Your child also may grieve for a loved one who is sick and dying. And children often feel the pain of loss before a big move or a divorce.
The ways children express grief are usually different from the way adults express it. Children are not always able to use words to say what they feel. Instead, they often express their feelings through behavior. Even children who can talk about their feelings may not always be able to express the many, sometimes conflicting, emotions they have.
Children may:
Grief is different for each child. There is no “normal” or “expected” period of time for grieving.
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
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