Understanding of Grief: Children aged 9-12 years

Concept:

• Understands that death is final
• Concern that his/her thoughts, words, behaviors caused the death
• Thinks about life milestones without their loved one (graduation, marriage, etc.)
• Heightened awareness of death. Concerns that other loved ones will die
• Formulating spiritual concepts

How to help:

• Offer comfort and support
• Expect emotional reactions and mood swings and be patient and gentle
• Encourage healthy and creative outlets drawing, reading, art, music, etc.
• Find peer support
• Communicate openly and answer questions honestly. Be available to talk and listen to their concerns
• Give them choices in the mourning process

If you are looking to support a grieving child, have questions or concerns, we are available to help. Please call us at the office at (231) 947-6453 or by email at GoodGrief@MyMichaelsPlace.net and talk with one of our grief support staff.