Helping a Grieving Child Return to School

The start of a new school year can bring excitement and uncertainty. For a child who is grieving, it may also bring difficult emotions to the surface.

School can provide routine, connection and a sense of normalcy. It can also create challenges, from questions from classmates to assignments that remind a child of the person who died.

Every child grieves differently, but preparation and support can make the transition easier.

Talk Before School Starts

Ask your child how they feel about returning to school. They may look forward to seeing friends while also feeling nervous, sad or overwhelmed.

Questions such as these can help:

• What are you looking forward to?
• Is anything worrying you?
• Who could you talk to if you have a difficult day?

Listen without trying to fix every feeling. Remind your child that mixed emotions are normal.

Prepare for Questions

Classmates may ask about the loss. Help your child decide what they feel comfortable sharing.

They might say, “Someone in my family died, but I do not want to talk about it right now.”

Practicing a response can help your child feel more prepared and in control.

Communicate With the School

Contact your child’s teacher, counselor or administrator before school begins. Share information that may help staff understand your child’s needs.

Discuss:

• Possible triggers
• Changes in behavior or concentration
• A trusted adult your child can visit
• A quiet place to take a break
• How and when the school should contact you

A simple plan can help school staff respond with patience and support.

Watch for Signs of Grief

Children do not always express grief through tears. It may appear as:

• Trouble concentrating
• Irritability or withdrawal
• Headaches or stomachaches
• Changes in sleep
• Falling grades
• Fear of leaving a caregiver
• Avoiding school

Grief may come and go over time. Speak with your child’s pediatrician or a mental health professional if it begins to interfere significantly with daily life or safety.

Keep Routines Flexible

Consistent meals, bedtimes and school schedules can help children feel secure. At the same time, some days may be harder than others.

Your child may need more time for homework, a break from activities or extra reassurance around holidays, anniversaries and school events.

Give Your Child a Safe Place to Grieve

Reserve Care’s grief camps give children a supportive place to connect with others who understand loss. Through age-appropriate activities, conversation and play, children can express their feelings, remember the person they miss and build healthy coping skills.

Programs are available at no cost, and a loved one did not need to receive hospice care to participate.

Explore upcoming Reserve Care grief camps and register your child today.