“How do I help my grieving child? How can I possibly explain what has happened? Where do I begin?” Parents of grieving parents often ask these questions. And there are no easy answers. A child’s ability to understand and cope with death is dependent on many factors, such as age, development, disposition, internal coping mechanisms, and experience with loss. A child’s grief is as individual as the child herself. Yet, there are ways for adults to help a grieving child heal.

We have compiled multiple web sites from the Fairview System to help you better understand your child’s grief so that you can be a healing presence in your child’s life. We realize that your child’s loved one is most likely your loved one too. We’re sorry for your loss and recognize you’re facing your own grief as you help your child face hers. Please feel free to call the Fairview Hospice Bereavement Program for additional support as you and your child walk this grief journey together. We can be reached as 612-728-2445 or 1-800-285-5647.

Fairview Hospice Children’s Grief Resources

• Guidelines to Help a Child Cope
• Preparing Children for Death of a Loved One
• Books on General Grief Topics
• Books on the Death of a Parent
• Books on the Death of a Grandparent
• Ten Suggestions to Help Children with Grief and Loss
• An Overview of Children’s Grief
• A guide to Helping Children through a Difficult Time

Fairview Youth Grief Services Resources

• What you may notice in a grieving child or teen
• What you can do to help a grieving child as a parent or caregiver
• What you can do to help a grieving child as a teacher, friend, or daycare provider
• Ways to help a child remember their loved one
• Suggested reading for children and teens
• Links to other sources of emotional, financial, practical help for your family
• Fairview Youth Grief Services Home Page