When an individual passes away, it is common for a child that knew them to be affected in some way or another. This may include the individual’s children, grandchildren, niece, nephew, sibling, neighbor, or close family friend. No matter who the child is, it is important for their caregiver to have the best information and resources to help them through this difficult time.
In the same way with adults, there is no specific timeline or easy fix for the grief a child will experience. Because the grief process is unique to each individual, each child will go through their own specific process that will look different than someone else. As the child matures and grows, it may appear that they are beginning to grieve over again. It is important to note that as children move into different developmental stages, their grief will resurface in different ways. With each season, they will develop new ways of understanding the death and how it affects them.
With children, it is also important to remember that in many ways, they will grieve differently than an adult. Knowing how to understand grief and discuss it with the child is important for the caregiver. While there are many resources available to better understand the way in which grief affects children, a wonderful resource in the Jackson-metro area is the McClean Fletcher Center.
The McClean Fletcher Center
The McClean Center is a resource created specifically for children going through the grieving process. It provides support and understanding in a safe and hopeful environment where children, teens and their families grieving the death of a loved one, can embrace their grief and move through the healing process towards peace. The McClean Center extends support services to families, caregivers, schools, and other agencies in the Jackson Metro area, while functioning as a resource to the entire state. The Center does not charge fees for its services. All Mississippi children, adolescents and their families in needs of these services are welcome!
To find out more information about the McClean Fletcher Center and the services they provide, visit their website or call their office at 601-206-5525.