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How to Talk to Children About Grief and Loss of Life |
How to Talk to Children About Grief and Loss of Life
Grief is one of life’s hardest experiences, and it can be especially confusing for children. They may not understand why someone they love is no longer with them, and they may struggle with emotions they’ve never felt before. As parents, grandparents, and caregivers, we have the privilege of helping children walk through grief with honesty, compassion, and faith. The Bible provides us with wisdom and comfort, giving us the tools to guide young hearts through sorrow. Here are suggestions about how to talk to children about grief and loss of life.
Speak Honestly, But Gently
Children need honesty, but in words they can understand. Scripture reminds us that there is “a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:2). Explaining death as a natural part of life, while assuring them of God’s love, helps children begin to process loss. Avoid phrases like “they went to sleep” or “we lost them,” which can cause fear or confusion. Instead, gently say that their loved one has died, but also share the hope we have in Christ.
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Ecclesiastes 3:4 Plaque |
Remind Them of God’s Presence
In moments of sadness, children need reassurance that they are not alone. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Let your child know that God sees their tears and is near to them. Pray with them and encourage them to talk to God about how they feel. Sometimes, just reminding them that God listens brings comfort.
Encourage Expression of Emotions
Jesus Himself wept when His friend Lazarus died (John 11:35). This shows children that sadness and tears are not only normal but also God-given ways to express grief. Encourage them to draw, write, talk, or even cry when they feel sorrow. Let them know it’s okay to feel angry, confused, or scared. When children see adults grieving in healthy ways, they learn that emotions are not something to hide but something God understands.
Share the Hope of Heaven
For children who know Jesus, grief can be softened with the promise of eternal life. Remind them of Jesus’ words in John 14:2-3: “In My Father’s house are many rooms…I go to prepare a place for you.” Explain that believers in Christ live forever with Him, and one day, we will be reunited. This truth doesn’t erase the pain, but it plants seeds of hope in young hearts.
Keep Talking, Keep Listening
Grief doesn’t end after the funeral or a few weeks of sadness. Children may ask the same questions over and over, or their grief may surface months later. Continue to be patient and open. Proverbs 22:6 encourages us to “train up a child in the way he should go.” Part of that training is guiding them through difficult seasons of life, pointing them back to God’s love and truth again and again.
Talking to children about grief is never easy, but God equips us to guide them with honesty, compassion, and hope. By sharing the truth of Scripture, acknowledging their emotions, and reminding them of God’s presence, we can help them see that even in sorrow, Jesus is our comforter. As we walk alongside them, we not only ease their pain but also teach them to lean on the One who “wipes away every tear” (Revelation 21:4).
Helping Children Process Grief with Bible Verse Memory Cards
Grief can be especially difficult for children to understand. They may not have the words to express their feelings, but they can feel the weight of sadness, confusion, and even fear when someone they love is gone. As parents, grandparents, or teachers, we want to offer them comfort and assurance—and God’s Word gives us exactly that.
That’s why I created these Bible Verse Memory Cards designed to help children process grief and loss. Each card features a simple, comforting scripture paired with a child-friendly illustration of Jesus. Verses like “He will wipe every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 21:4) and “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid” (Hebrews 13:6) remind kids that God is close to the brokenhearted and always with them.
These cards can be used in many ways:
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As memory verses to hide God’s promises in their hearts.
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As conversation starters when children are ready to talk about their feelings.
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As daily reminders tucked into a lunchbox, pinned on the fridge, or placed beside their bed.
Children may not understand all the “why” questions that come with grief, but they can understand the love and comfort of Jesus. By surrounding them with God’s Word in simple, tangible ways, we can help them feel secure, hopeful, and loved—even in the midst of loss.
If you’d like to use these in your own home, classroom, or church, you can find the set of printable Bible Verse Memory Cards here.
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How to Talk to Children About Grief and Loss of Life |
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