We had a good chat this evening about children's responses to losing a loved one. Parents gave examples of how long it can take a child to process what has happened and how they may not express their feelings until years after an event sometimes. When a child had had an experience of losing a pet this prepared them a little about the idea of dying. There are a number of very good resources available on the topic. These need to be tailored to individual children:
www.childhoodbereavement.ie is website for professionals and families who are caring for children who are bereaved.
Coping with death, for children aged 6 - 12 years old: A colourful illustrated booklet for children published by Barnardos.
A sample of a social story with pictures to explain about death and grief for children.
Death, Bereavement and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Information from the UK National Autistic Society
Death: Helping Children Understand: A booklet from Barnardos Children's Organisation
Leaflets from Console, the national suicide charity.
A booklet to support young adults understanding of death and funerals.
Grieving for the loss of your pet. A leaflet on how to help yourself.
Talking to children about a traumatic death. A leaflet on how to break the news and provide ongoing support.
A detailed guide about supporting a person with an intellectual disability to come to terms with loss.
www.childhoodbereavement.ie is website for professionals and families who are caring for children who are bereaved.
Coping with death, for children aged 6 - 12 years old: A colourful illustrated booklet for children published by Barnardos.
A sample of a social story with pictures to explain about death and grief for children.
Death, Bereavement and Autism Spectrum Disorders: Information from the UK National Autistic Society
Death: Helping Children Understand: A booklet from Barnardos Children's Organisation
Leaflets from Console, the national suicide charity.
A booklet to support young adults understanding of death and funerals.
Grieving for the loss of your pet. A leaflet on how to help yourself.
Talking to children about a traumatic death. A leaflet on how to break the news and provide ongoing support.
A detailed guide about supporting a person with an intellectual disability to come to terms with loss.