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How Children Express Sadness
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Clamming up and acting as if there's nothing wrong around them is a surefire way to communicate that emotions are not OK when dealing with loss. Children may respond inappropriately - giggling or acting nonchalant.
Saying things like, "It's hard to know what to think about Grandpa dying, isn't it?" can help guide your child's behavior. Be sure not to punish for inappropriateness. Listen to your child and watch for signs that he or she may be hurting but not communicating that pain. It's a mistake to scold children, especially boys, for showing emotion. Lead by example, showing your children that it's OK to cry and not be ashamed to do so. Families support one another, and as children grow up, they need that example to imitate with their own children when the time comes.
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