mourning

Poll

Do You Discuss Death With Your Children?

By the time my daughter was two she had attended three family funerals.

By the time my daughter was two she had attended three family funerals. In the years since, more people have passed including her great-grandfather and a preschool classmate. She notices when the phone rings with bad news or someone disappears so I've always told her the truth — that people eventually die. How do you handle death with your children?
Source

News

How to Help Parents Grieving the Loss of a Child

Actor John Travolta and his wife, Kelly Preston suffered a devastating loss on Friday when their 16-year-old son, Jett, died.

Actor John Travolta and his wife, Kelly Preston suffered a devastating loss on Friday when their 16-year-old son, Jett, died. Being predeceased by a child is a parent's worst nightmare. The mere thought of losing one's offspring is enough to bring a mother or father to tears. The reality is difficult to fathom so finding the words to appropriately comfort someone who is grieving such a loss can be hard. Here are some tips to use in coping with the sensitive task of supporting a parent whose child has died.

  • Behave naturally
  • Show genuine concern
  • Offer love patiently and unconditionally

To see the rest of the suggestions, read more