Helping Children Grieve, revised edition: When Someone They Love Dies

by Theresa Huntley

This straightforward book helps adults talk to children in meaningful ways, nurturing their faith and building their emotional strength during a time of crisis. The author explains common reactions (emotional, physical, and behavioral) parents can expect from children of all ages, and offers adults the spiritual tools they need to help children cope with a significant loss.

Paperback

First published January 1, 1991

Reviews

[Buffy Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the second time I had read this book. Originally, I read it as part of my doula credentials, and I've recommended it several times to parents as a student doula and a graduated doula. 💐
It's a difficult read because the reader will naturally consider their own mortality. It reiterates that death is what occurs when a part of the body stops working.
What I found most interesting is how children view death at different stages:
-Being vs. Non-being,
-Separation
-Death as a person, or an event that only happens to some people,
-Magical thinking: I wished or caused this to happen,
-The adult concept- that death happens to everyone when a part of the body stops working.
This book promotes honesty without overwhelming children with unnecessary information. It discusses how to talk to grieving children and what their common behaviors might be.
I also favored the idea of "Death Education" because I think there are many opportunities for children to learn- through the loss of a pet for the first time, nature, the church, health class, etc. Even if children don't become comfortable with the concept of death, they will be better prepared to cope with it when it comes. 🥀
Something else unique about this book: it covers talking to and addressing the needs/concerns of children who are terminally ill and dying in a way that is sensitive. I think that is an important and uncommon skill.🕯