Supporting children and young people with loss, change and bereavement

1. Talk to your child

• Take into account your child’s age and stage of development to explain the situation
• Expect questions and be honest
• Reassure children it is not their fault

2. Responses to loss

• Everyone’s responses are different
• Changes in behaviour and mood are normal
• Grief is exhausting for children and adults

3. What you can do to help

• Provide ongoing comfort, attention and reassurance
• Help children recognise and name feelings
• Help children to share memories

4. Taking care of yourself

• Get plenty of sleep, eat healthily and stay active
• Talk to family and friends
• Manage your own expectations of what you can do – be kind to yourself

5. Additional information and support

• Contact your child’s nursery or school
• Child Bereavement UK – 0800 0288 40
• Edinburgh Psychological Services – 0131 469 2800