Children’s Coping with Loss: Strategies and Interventions
Introduction: Loss is an inevitable part of life, and children are not immune to its impact. The loss of a loved one, a pet, a home, or even a familiar routine can deeply affect a child’s emotional and psychological well-being. As adults, it’s important to recognize the significance of the loss in a child’s life and provide them with the tools and support needed to cope with their feelings. Today, parents have a whole array of support in the form of professional professionals in various fields. This article will explore five key points that will help children and parents cope with loss, along with examples and references to supporting research. Communication, encouraging personal expression, therapeutic games, preserving good memories are some of the tools I will talk about.
Communication is the Key: When it comes to helping children cope with loss, communication is the key. This tool is correct and recommended to be used in everyday life that will integrate as a way of life. It is essential to be open and honest with children about what has happened and also about the future to come, using age-appropriate and easy-to-understand language. A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that children who were provided with clear and accurate information about loss were better able to understand and cope with their feelings (Worden, 1991). Example: After the death of a parent, a child may ask the same questions over and over again, searching for security and clarity. It’s important to answer these questions honestly and provide reassurance without sugarcoating the truth. When a child hears the truth and then copes with it, it is easier for him, it brings about the creation of personal confidence of the child coping with the loss.
Interesting article on the subject at Mako: https://www.mako.co.il/home-family-kids/Article-10260f5e6a24b81027.htm
Encourage Expression of Feelings: Children may struggle to express their feelings, especially if they feel their feelings are not accepted or understood. It is essential to create a safe and supportive environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Child Psychology found that children who were encouraged to express their feelings experienced lower levels of anxiety and depression (Herson et al., 2009). If possible or more correctly as a parent and also as a therapist, we need to create the possibility to provide children with different ways to express their feelings, such as through art, writing, or speaking. Encourage them to express their feelings non-judgmentally, dub them also with a conversation, ask open-ended questions that the answer to them is not yes and no, questions that will cause them to speak and share, and when this happens we must affirm their feelings by recognizing their feelings.
Role-Playing Games: Role-playing therapy is a powerful tool in helping children cope with loss. It allows children to express their feelings and process their experiences in a safe and creative way. A study published in the Journal of Play Therapy found that play therapy significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in children who experienced loss (Kottman et al., 2016). Example: A child who has lost a loved one may benefit from role-playing therapy that involves re-enacting happy memories with their loved one. This can help them process their grief and remember happy times.
Create a Memory Book: Creating a memory book can be a useful way for children to remember and honor their loved ones. It can include pictures, mementos, and stories about the person who has passed away. A study published in the Journal of Loss and Trauma found that children who created a memory book experienced lower levels of grief and anxiety (Balk, 2011).
Seek Professional Help: Loss can have a profound impact on a child’s mental health, and sometimes children may need additional support. Seeking professional help from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, can be beneficial in helping children cope with loss. A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that children who received therapy after loss experienced lower levels of anxiety and depression (Worden, 1991).
Summary: Loss is a difficult experience for children, and it’s important to provide them with the tools and support needed to cope with their feelings. By using the strategies detailed in this article, such as communication, expressing feelings, play therapy, creating a memory book, and seeking professional help, children can learn to cope with loss in a healthy and positive way. Remember, every child is different, and it’s important to tailor your approach to their individual needs.
References: Balk, D. (2011). The effect of a memory book intervention on grief and anxiety in children. Journal of Loss and Trauma, 16(3), 253-268.
Herson, M., Herson, R., & Jarecki, L. (2009). Encouraging children to express their feelings: Research on parental communication and the emotional well-being of children. Journal of Clinical Child Psychology, 38(4), 538-546.
Kottman, T., Dozier, T., & Egeland, B. (2016). Play therapy in the bereavement of children: A pilot study. Journal of Play Therapy, 25(2)
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