Kids experiencing Grief

My approach to therapy when a child is grieving includes collaborating with parents and caregivers.

 

In therapy, children are given a safe space to explore their feelings—sometimes through play, art, or gentle conversation. (What is Play Therapy?) By sharing general insights with parents (without breaking the child’s trust) helps them understand what their child might need at home. This guidance can make it easier for parents to know when to step in with comfort, when to give space, and how to validate emotions without rushing their child through the process.

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I can also help parents keep routines steady, since predictability brings children a sense of safety during such uncertain times. I often encourage families to create small rituals of remembrance, guide the use of simple and age-appropriate language when talking about loss, or find creative outlets like drawing, journaling, or music to express feelings. Parents can carry these strategies into daily life, making healing part of the child’s everyday environment, not just something that happens in the therapy room.

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It’s just as important for parents to tend to their own grief, and I will gently remind them that caring for themselves allows them to better care for their child. Together, parents and therapists build a circle of support where the child feels surrounded by love, understanding, and consistency.

 

This teamwork not only helps a child process their grief but also reassures them that they are not alone in the journey.

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