Even if their words can’t explain it, children’s hearts feel loss just as deeply as adults do.
Grief can show up in many ways—through silence, big emotions, questions that are hard to answer, or even changes in play. What they need most is to know they are seen, loved, and not alone in what they’re carrying.
Grief is heavy, but with the right support, kids can begin to feel hope again.
A post on the Church’s Caring Instagram page explains that kids grieve too. It provides 8 suggestions to help children deal with grief.
1. Acknowledge their feelings. Let children know it’s okay to feel sad, mad, confused, or even relieved. Remind them that grief isn’t weakness. It’s actually love in a different form.
2. Offer honest explanations. Be truthful in simple words children can understand. Explain that death means the body has stopped working, but because of Jesus Christ, life continues after death. It’s also important to remember that grief isn’t only about death. Kids may also grieve after divorce, moving, or other big changes.
3. Create safe spaces. Give kids room to ask questions, cry, or even play. Grief often shows up in waves and play can be healing.
4. Watch for warning signs. If a child withdraws completely, stops eating or sleeping, expresses hopelessness, or talks about wanting to die, it’s time to seek extra help. Professional support and loving guidance can make a huge difference.
5. Keep routines. When life feels shaky, routines provide stability. Consistency in things like mealtimes, bedtime, and school helps kids feel safe.
6. Use stories and music. Read stories and sing songs about Christ’s Atonement and God’s plan. Sometimes, these can speak louder than verbal explanations.
7. Remember together. Talking about the person who died helps keep their love alive in our hearts. Invite children to share memories, draw pictures, or make a memory box together.
8. Keep showing up. As kids grow, grief can resurface. Continue to check in, listening, and reassuring them of Heavenly Father’s love.
Read more articles about how to deal with grief.