Supporting children and young people with loss, change and bereavement

The support cycle

1. Talk to your child

  • Take into account your child’s age and stage of development to explain the situation
  • Expect questions and be honest
  • Reassure children it is not their fault

2. Responses to loss

  • Everyone’s responses are different
  • Changes in behaviour and mood are normal
  • Grief is exhausting for children and adults

3. What you can do to help

  • Provide ongoing comfort, attention and reassurance
  • Help children recognise and name feelings
  • Help children to share memories

4. Taking care of yourself

  • Get plenty of sleep, eat healthily and stay active
  • Talk to family and friends
  • Manage your own expectations of what you can do – be kind to yourself

5. Additional information and support

  • Contact your child’s nursery or school
  • Child Bereavement UK – 0800 0288 40
  • Edinburgh Psychological Services – 0131 469 2800