Coping With Loss: Ages 2-4

Children in this age range will react more to the immediate loss of the loved one and reactions of others than to the reality that the loved one will never return. Children in this stage of development are not often able to comprehend what death means. Even though these children will feel a distinct loss, they may not understand their feelings. At this stage of development, caregivers need to reassure children that they will never be alone and will always have someone to love them, even though the deceased family member may not return.

It is also important to demonstrate healthy forms of mourning, letting the child understand that crying and feeling sad or angry is natural and normal, as is wanting to express their feelings. If the child seems to be withdrawing emotionally, or they are expressing their emotions in negative or destructive ways, therapy could prove highly beneficial in allowing the child to develop coping mechanisms under the care of a mental health professional.

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