Death & Grief

Parents understandably can feel overwhelmed with their own grief when a family member dies. It can be difficult to know how best to support children at this time. While each family has its own culture and traditions that may guide and comfort them following a death in the family, you can also check some of the main ways to support children who are grieving. 

When a whānau member has died, even very young children (under 2 years) will need an explanation of what they are seeing around them, to help them start to understand what has happened. Talking to children helps them to trust you and helps them to make sense of what is happening in their world.

Facing the death of your own child is one of the toughest life experiences. Here is some information you may find helpful. Some of it may apply to your own situation, some of it may not.

Bereaved children and young people may experience a wide range of ongoing grief reactions, as adults do, but their age and stage, personality and family situation will affect their experience and expression of it.

One of the best ways adults can help young grievers is to listen to their stories. Telling their story is a healing experience.

A child's reactions to grief can depend on many things, including their developmental stage. Bereaved children and teenagers will need ongoing attention, reassurance and support. Find out more about the common reactions to grief and ways to support children at different ages and stages.

Finding your way through the sadness and pain of the loss of a precious child is the toughest of tasks.