A Focus Series

Grief in kids and teens

Helping kids cope with loss, tragedy and divorce
Inside this Series

Kids need to fully grieve the losses in their life so they don’t get stuck in a distressed emotional state that can stay with them well into adulthood. The content on this page will help you understand what grief looks like in kids – it’s very different from adults – and how to help your children grieve in a healthy way. You’ll also find tips on helping kids deal with a suicide, with sudden traumatic incidents, and with the long-term impacts of divorce.


Helping children grieve

Resources for parents

It's Okay to Cry: A parent's guide to helping children through the losses of life

When a Child You Love Is Grieving by Harold Ivan Smith

When Your Family's Lost a Loved One

Resources for grieving kids

Someone I Love Died for ages 4+

Emily Lost Someone She Loves by Kathleen Fucci

Henry Says Good-Bye for ages 3+


Help with specific types of loss


Trauma-related grief


Grieving illness


Grieving divorce

Recommended resource:

DivorceCare for Kids