Episode 32: Broken Bonds (Helping Children Grieve)
“I will repay you double what the swarming locust has eaten.” - Joel 2:25
Summary:
In this episode, Elizabeth, Brittany Primeaux, and our newest team member Jessica Wilfore discuss the profound impact of sibling loss on living children. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating grief while supporting surviving siblings. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, emotional expression, and the ongoing journey of healing after the loss of a child. Through personal stories and insights, they provide valuable perspectives on how to cope with grief while fostering love and remembrance in their families.
Takeaways:
Grieving parents often struggle to support their living children.
Children process grief differently based on their age and understanding.
It's crucial for children to see their parents express emotions.
Community support is vital for grieving families.
Talking about the deceased sibling helps keep their memory alive.
Parents can circle back to conversations about grief at any time.
It's important to create a safe space for children to express their feelings.
Grief can be overwhelming, especially for children.
Talking about lost siblings helps living children understand.
Pregnancy after loss brings a mix of emotions.
Anticipation of grief can be worse than the actual event.
Children grieve in doses, fluctuating between happiness and sadness.
Using concrete language about death is essential for children.
Creative outlets can help children process grief.
Finding hope in the midst of grief is vital.
Discussion Questions:
What has been most helpful for you in helping your children grieve?
How have you been able to share your grief with your children?
In what personal ways have you kept your child’s memory alive for your family?
