Conversation with Kids: Grief and Death with Mrs.Cassandra Hudson

Recently, our community experienced a tremendous loss of life. Ms. Dorian Skales of Brown Beauty Magic, who touched the lives of so many children in our area, passed away recently and I'm sure her death left children with a lot of questions, emotions and of course grief. I reached out to an amazing children's-centered therapist, Mrs. Cassandra Hudson from Small World Enrichment, who graciously offer some insight on how to assist your children cope with loss and grief. Here's her insight. I hope it helps. 

Coping with Grief and Loss 

Coping with grief and loss is a difficult and emotional experience for anyone. It can also be challenging

for children who may or may not have the words or maturity to express how they feel. Often, parents

may feel helpless and unsure of what to do to help their child navigate the loss. Here are some areas to

focus on to help support your child during a time of loss or grief.

Listen with Compassion

One of the most important things a parent can do for their child during

a time of loss is to listen openly and non-judgmentally. Listening to your child while trying to

understand their perspective allows them to recognize how they feel and helps you figure out

how to provide support. When listening, make sure you are present, calm, reassuring, and

provide time for your child to share their thoughts, fears, and emotions while acknowledging

their own experience.

Allow your child to express emotions through play or other creative ways

Children work through problems and grief through play. Encourage your child to engage in safe play in a

supportive environment using paints, sand, and toys that allow them to create or play what they

feel. Observe them playing and remain open and curious about their perspective.

Provide a stable and predictable routine

Children thrive on stability and routine and during a time of loss and grief, it may be important to maintain stability to support your child.

Offer age-appropriate support and activities based on who your child is

Some children may need more connection and affection, while others may need some space and activities to

process and cope. Support your child in the way that he or she needs, and offer activities such as

spending time together cuddling, spending time together but engaged in activity, planting a tree

or garden to remember the positive memories, or building a scrapbook. Allow the child ways to

find comfort in their grief.

Overall, grief is a difficult journey, and each of us, including our children, may navigate it differently. It

can be a challenging time for the child, parents, and family. If you find yourself struggling to help your

child and/or family, consider connecting with a child and family therapist for support.

Cassandre Hudson, LCSW

Child and Family Therapist

Small World Enrichment LLC

706. 310.5153