Grief counseling for a 3 year old?

Question

My wife and I lost a baby last year, and our 3 & 1/2 year old told us tonight that his heart is broken that he will never see his sister again. What should I do. I told him that she is in heaven, and we will see her again. I would appreciate some advice.

Thank you.

Answer 1

While he may or may not have a serious need for it, it certainly won't hurt, and may do a lot of good. As for the heaven thing, children that young can have difficulty understanding the abstract concepts of life after death, God, the immortal soul, etc. I would take him to talk to a counselor who has a lot of experience with children.

Answer 2

I'm so sorry for your loss. I have never lost a child, so I feel a little unqualified to answer this, but I'll try to help. My father passed away last year when my daughter was 2.  We told her from the moment he died that sometimes people get sick and the doctors can't fix it, so Jesus has to take them to heaven to make them feel better. She'll mention him sometimes and say she wants him to come back. I tell her "I know, I miss him, too. But he has to stay in heaven so he feels good. He's there dancing, singing and having fun. One day we'll get to see him again." She enjoys helping me take flowers to his grave, coloring pictures for him, and dancing to songs he used to listen to. Maybe some of this might help your little one. My father had cancer, so he was taken care of by hospice. They provide a grief counselor that still checks on us now. If you think this will help, consult with a grief counselor and explain what's going on. They may be able to help.

Answer 3

That breaks my heart. )':

All you really can do is be with him, tell him it's okay. She's in a better place now and she's always with him. She'll always love him. Keep it positive and make sure he knows he is loved. Let him have a picture of her or make him a pocket watch with her picture in it so he feels like she's with him.

He's a bit too young for counseling, and it's really not necessary unless it's really hurting him mentally or physically. If you notice changes in his social behavior, get the poor little guy some help. But the best thing for him right now is the love and support of his parents.

Answer 4

i have never been in your situation and i am so sorry for your loss..but i can tell you what i wold do if i was in your situation.i would take him to counseling at least once or twice they can tell you if he needs further treatment i know that after 3 is when they start to really have emotions like that so it would never ever hurt i would definitely take him..you can also call and get their advice..hope this helps good luck

Answer 5

Consult with a mental health expert. He/she should be able to refer you to a grief support group for children or (at the very least) a grief counselor who's trained to deal with young children.

Answer 6

Absolutely you should look into grief counseling for your three year old.  There are child therapists that specialize in play therapy and other techniques used for very young children.  Your pediatrician might be able to refer you.

Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss.