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Under 5s can, and often do, react strongly to their own grief, but also to the grief of significant adults involved in their day-to-day care. Whatever the circumstances, babies, and children under five years of age need to have their grief acknowledged and their distress comforted.
People are often at a loss as to know what to say or do to help a child who has been bereaved by the death of someone important to them. Every situation is different, and children will be affected to a greater or lesser degree, dependent on the circumstances of the death and the nature of the relationship they had with the person who has died.
Most grieving children do not need a ‘bereavement expert’ they need people who care. Early years settings, just by carrying on with their usual day-to-day activities while being aware of the bereavement, can do a huge amount to support a grieving child.
Bereaved young children need the stability of a familiar routine with caring adults. Read more
Information to help members of staff supporting a bereaved family. Read more
Being alongside anyone experiencing a loss can be emotionally draining, but supporting a bereaved child, particularly so. The need for support yourself is not a sign of an inability to cope or of professional incompetence, but a recognition that everyone needs help to carry out this demanding role. Read more
An Early Years bereavement policy will help a setting to consider a response in the event of the death of a child, member of staff, parent or member of the community. Read more
An information pack for schools supporting bereaved pupils in primary schools - loss, death and grief. The pack contains a series of A4 fact sheets, offering guidance, support and information when a death occurs in the school community or when a school is facing an expected death. Can be Downloaded free of charge. Read more
Books and resources suitable for Early Years settings. Read more