HELPING SOMEONE GRIEVE THE DEATH OF A CHILD

Be loving and non-judgmental: 

The most important thing you can do is to be present and available to your loved one. Let parents show you pictures and talk about their child. Be a good listener.

Help make arrangements or do chores

If it is appropriate, take care of something that would be of help–yard work, cooking, cleaning, transportation. Let the family know you’re willing to watch their children if they need some time alone or help in other ways.

Be genuine in your communication. 

Don’t try to minimize their loss, provide simplistic solutions, or offer unsolicited advice. It’s far better to just listen to your loved one or simply admit: “I’m not sure what to say, but I want you to know I care.”

Be willing to sit in silence. 

Don’t press if the grieving person doesn’t feel like talking. Often, comfort for them comes from simply being in your company. If you can’t think of something to say, just offer eye contact, a squeeze of the hand, or a reassuring hug.

Find support groups for bereaved parents:

 If you are in a position to do so, ask a support group leader to call the grieving parents to talk or pass along the contact information to the parents.

Continue your support over the long haul. 

Stay in touch with the grieving person, periodically checking in, dropping by, or sending letters or cards. Once the funeral is over and the other mourners are gone, and the initial shock of the loss has worn off, your support is more valuable than ever.

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