Children & Grief
Children grieve differently to adults. They may not have the words to explain how they feel, and their emotions can appear through behaviour rather than conversation. When a child experiences loss, they need safety, patience, and understanding to help them make sense of what has happened.
Grief in children is real, meaningful, and deserving of gentle support.
How Children Experience Grief
Children often move in and out of grief. One moment they may appear fine, and the next they may be overwhelmed. This does not mean they are not grieving — it is simply how their minds cope with emotions that feel too large for them.
Children may express grief through:
- Changes in behaviour or mood
- Withdrawal or quietness
- Anger, outbursts, or frustration
- Clinginess or separation anxiety
- Sleep disturbances or nightmares
- Regression to younger behaviours (such as bedwetting or thumb-sucking)
These are natural responses to loss.
Why Children Need Special Support
Children may not fully understand what death or loss means. They often feel:
- Confused by changes in routine
- Fearful about further loss
- Responsible or guilty
- Powerless or overwhelmed
Without the right support, children may feel isolated inside their grief.
Talking to Children About Grief
Honesty, simplicity, and reassurance are key. Children benefit from:
- Clear, age-appropriate explanations
- Reassurance that they are safe and loved
- Opportunities to ask questions
- Permission to express their feelings
- Consistency in routine where possible
Avoiding the subject can make children feel more frightened and alone.
How the National Grief Advice Service Can Help
The National Grief Advice Service offers compassionate, confidential support to children, young people, parents, and caregivers navigating grief. Our trained advisors understand how grief affects children at each stage of development.
We can provide support with:
- Helping children express their emotions safely
- Supporting parents and carers in difficult conversations
- Guidance on grief at different developmental stages
- Coping strategies for anxiety, anger, and sadness
- Creating a safe environment for healing
Support for Parents and Caregivers
Supporting a grieving child while managing your own emotions can feel overwhelming. You may feel unsure what to say or how to help.
You do not have to do this alone. We are here to support you as well.
When to Seek Additional Support
Extra support may be helpful if a child:
- Becomes withdrawn for long periods
- Shows intense fear or anxiety
- Struggles at school or socially
- Has persistent sleep problems
- Talks about wanting to disappear or feeling worthless
Early support can make a lasting positive difference.
A Message of Hope
Children are incredibly resilient when supported with honesty, love, and patience. With the right care, they can learn to live alongside their grief and grow with strength and confidence.
The National Grief Advice Service is here to support children and families with compassion, understanding, and gentle guidance.
