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Home > Articles > Symptoms of Grief in Children
Children will often go through the same stages of grief as adults. In preparing to deal with grief, it is helpful to recognize signs and symptoms. The symptoms you may see in your child include:
- anger
- guilt
- depression
- an unusual presentation in attempting to rationalize the loss
- insomnia- Night terrors are not at all uncommon
- anger
- acting out
- eating disorders-overeating or not eating enough
- lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- bullying, or other aggressive types of behavior
- trouble concentrating in school
Helpful tips:
- Inform your childs' teacher of that your beloved pet has passed away
- Ask the teacher to communicate any behavioral changes that your child may be demonstrating at school
- Do not hesitate to work with the school psychologist on grief and loss issues
- Ask a lot of questions of your child-get them to talk about how they feel
- Listen, nurture and support
- Let your child know that you, too, feel sad and miss the family pet
- Normalize feelings of loss
Pawsitive Expression Care Package Includes:
- a book written by a licensed psychologist on how to manage and assimilate feelings of grief and loss and how to talk to your child about their feelings
- vigil candles to hold a "passing on" ceremony that nurtures closure
- flower seeds to plant a memorial garden
- picture frame to remember your furry family member
- a poem on pet loss
Pet Loss Support Page
www.pet-loss.net
Association of Pet Loss and Bereavement
www.aplb.org
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