Grief is hard—for adults, and especially for children. When someone close passes away, a child’s world can feel confusing, heavy, and suddenly unfamiliar. As adults, we may struggle with what to say or how to help, especially when we’re grieving ourselves. But children need support, honesty, and space to express their feelings, even if they can’t yet put words to their pain.

Whether it’s the loss of a grandparent, a friend, or another loved one, helping a grieving child through the grieving process is about making them feel understood, supported, and safe as they begin to navigate a new emotional reality.

Every Child Grieves Differently

Just like adults, children experience grief in unique ways. Some may ask lots of questions, others may seem quiet or detached. You might notice behavioral changes—clinginess, mood swings, trouble sleeping, or acting out. These are all normal responses to grief and loss.

Age, personality, and relationship to the person who has died all influence how a child processes what’s happened. What’s important is to let them move at their own pace while creating a consistent, nurturing environment where they feel secure.

Start With Honest, Simple Conversations

Many adults hesitate to talk openly about death, fearing it will upset the child further. But silence can actually leave children more confused and alone. Being honest—using age-appropriate language and avoiding euphemisms—helps children begin to understand what’s happened.

Say things like:

• “Grandma died. That means her body stopped working and she won’t be coming back.”
• “It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or even confused. I feel that way too.”

Talking about the person they’ve lost also helps them process memories and keep the connection alive. Share stories, look at photos together, and let them know it’s okay to cry—or not cry.

Let Them Express Their Feelings in Their Own Way

Children may not have the vocabulary to explain their emotions, but that doesn’t mean they’re not feeling them. Encourage expression through drawing, writing, storytelling, or play. Art and imagination often provide an outlet for emotions that feel too big to say out loud.

The key is to be present and nonjudgmental. Let them know there are no “wrong” feelings, and that they don’t have to hide their grief to protect you or others.

When children express their feelings, they begin to make sense of what they’re experiencing—and that’s an essential part of healing.

Help Them Feel Safe and Secure

Grief can shake a child’s sense of safety. Routines may change, adults may be more emotional than usual, and the world can feel unstable.

Providing consistency, comfort, and reassurance helps kids regain a sense of control. Keep daily routines intact when possible. Let them know who will pick them up from school, make dinner, or tuck them in at night. These small details matter more than we realize.

Most importantly, remind them they are loved and cared for—and that it’s okay to ask questions or ask for help.

Involve Them in the Goodbye

Attending the funeral or memorial service can be a meaningful part of the grieving process for children. While some families worry that these events may be too upsetting, being included helps kids understand the reality of the loss and feel part of the communal goodbye.

Talk with your child about what to expect and offer them a choice. If they attend, consider bringing a quiet activity or comfort item. If they don’t attend, help them find another way to honor the person who has died—writing a letter, lighting a candle, or creating a memory box.

Encourage Healthy Ways to Cope With Grief

Children need outlets and support as they learn to cope with grief. Encourage them to:

• Ask questions and talk when they need to
• Engage in physical activity or creative play
• Spend time with family members and friends who make them feel safe
• Maintain routines and sleep habits

For some children, professional support can be especially helpful. Grief counseling provides a safe space to explore their emotions with the guidance of someone trained to support them through it.

When to Seek Additional Support

If your child is struggling to function, becoming withdrawn, or showing signs of prolonged distress, it may be time to reach out for professional help. A therapist who specializes in grief or child development can provide tools, support, and a path forward.

At GROW Counseling, we help children cope with grief and loss through developmentally appropriate therapy and compassionate care. Our clinicians create a space where children can feel safe, express their feelings freely, and begin to heal in their own way.

We provide therapy services to families in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Peachtree City, and surrounding areas, with both in-person and virtual sessions available.

If your child is grieving and you’re not sure how to support them, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Contact us today to learn more about how we can walk alongside your family during this time of loss and healing.