Grief can be confusing for anyone, but it’s especially difficult for children. They may not have the words to describe their emotions or understand why someone they love is gone. At Schindler Funeral Home, we believe that honest communication and compassionate guidance can help children find comfort and stability during times of loss.
Be Honest — and Use Simple Language
Children benefit from gentle honesty. Use clear, age-appropriate language when explaining death — avoid phrases like “gone to sleep” or “passed away” that may confuse them. It’s okay to say that someone died. Truthful explanations help children build trust and feel secure asking questions.
Encourage Questions and Feelings
Every child processes grief differently. Some may cry or cling to loved ones, while others may seem unaffected or turn inward. Encourage questions and be ready to answer the same ones more than once. Let them know that all feelings — sadness, anger, confusion, even laughter — are normal and okay to express.
Offer Reassurance and Routine
Loss can make a child’s world feel uncertain. Keeping familiar routines, such as mealtimes, bedtime, and school schedules, can restore a sense of safety. Remind them that they are loved and that adults will continue to care for them. Predictability helps children feel protected when everything else feels uncertain.
Include Children in Remembrance
Allowing children to participate in memorials or share memories helps them feel connected. They might draw a picture, write a letter, choose flowers, or help place something meaningful at the service. These small acts can help them express love and say goodbye in their own way.
Be a Model of Healthy Grieving
Children often look to adults to understand how to handle strong emotions. Let them see that it’s okay to cry, talk about the person who died, or ask for help. Demonstrating openness about grief teaches children that expressing sadness is a natural and healthy part of healing.
Seek Extra Support if Needed
Sometimes, grief can overwhelm a child beyond what family can manage alone. If your child is showing prolonged changes in behavior — withdrawal, trouble sleeping, or persistent anxiety — a counselor or grief specialist can help. Schindler Funeral Home can connect families with trusted local resources and grief programs throughout Western New York.
At Schindler Funeral Home, we are honored to serve families of all ages with compassion and care. If your child is struggling after the loss of a loved one, please reach out to our team for guidance and local support options. Healing begins with understanding — and no one should walk that path alone.
