As parents or caregivers, there is a natural tendency to want to find solutions for children’s pain or to protect them from it altogether. However, when a death happens in a family you cannot fix it. When a child asks questions about the death, you may naturally tend to begin talking and stop listening, in an attempt to protect them from the pain. However, the most important thing you can do to help your child or teen in their grief is to listen to them and encourage them to talk about what has happened. You cannot undo the death or to take away the pain, but what you can do is let them know that you know they are grieving and honour their grief by allowing them to have it. (Source:
Children and teen's grief sometimes differs from adult grief. Children’s expression of grief differs depending on age and developmental stage. It is important to acknowledge this when a death has occurred so children and teens are properly supported in their grief. Teens also have their own unique ways of grieving and are more likely to internalize their grief. Bereavement services at the IWK Health Centre include resources for both teens and children. This may include support and consultation with members of the Pediatric Palliative Care Service.
Children’s Grief Group
Wondering what the group is like? Hear one child talk about his experience:
Please click here to view upcoming dates.
Teen Grief Group
This group is for teens aged 13-18 who have experienced the death of a loved one. The group occurs three to four times per year, running once per week for four weeks. For more information on when the next group begins, or to make a referral, contact the Pediatric Palliative Care Service at 902-470-8942 or 470-7262.
Please click here to view upcoming dates.
Wondering what the group is like? Hear two teens talk about their experience: