Age Is Important When Helping Children Cope With Loss

In general, the age of the child at the time of the loved one’s death will impact how the child perceives the situation and how he or she responds. While the child age will have implications for the child’s response to a loss, all caregivers should consider the family environment to recognize that support provided to a child at any stage in development can be helpful for improving coping and healing.

Although a basic foundation for love and support will be essential to helping children prepare for the impending death and loss of a loved one who is still alive, as well as the sudden loss of someone important to them, the type of support and communication provided by caregivers should be contingent upon the age and level of maturity of the child.

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