Grief is difficult at any age, but for children, the experience of loss can be especially confusing and overwhelming. They may not fully understand what has happened, or they may express their emotions in ways that adults don't immediately recognize as grief. At Dancy Funeral Home, we believe in supporting families through every aspect of loss—including helping the youngest hearts heal.
We’ve created this guide to offer comfort and practical support for families navigating grief with children.
The most powerful support you can offer a grieving child is your presence and honesty. Use clear, age-appropriate language to explain what has happened, and reassure them that it’s okay to feel sad, angry, confused—or not know what they’re feeling at all.
Here are a few gentle ways to help:
Be available to listen. Let them talk about their loved one, or simply sit with them when words are hard to find.
Encourage expression. Drawing, storytelling, or play can be helpful ways for children to process big emotions.
Maintain routines. Familiar structure helps provide a sense of safety and stability.
Validate their feelings. Assure them that their reactions—whatever they may be—are normal and okay.
Every child grieves in their own way and on their own timeline. Be patient and check in often, even if they seem "fine."
