Helping children Cope with Loss and grief

Experiencing loss in our lives starts at birth. From the loss of a special toy or blanket to the loss of familiar persons (mother or father) leaving the room for a short time we experience separation and pain. Children often teach us as adults how they best cope with their grief. Children at different developmental ages may understand and respond quite differently. For example. a child around the age of 3-5 may say "grandpa died today in hospital but he always comes to our house for lunch on Sunday so we will see him them". They often express their thoughts and feelings through play, drawings and conversation (even talking to their favourite toy).