Why Did My Momma Have to Die??

Bitter are the tears of a child: Sweeten them.
Deep are the thoughts of a child: Quiet them.
Sharp is the grief of a child: Take it from him.
Soft is the heart of a child: Do not harden it.

                        ---Author Unknown

1. Try and find out what a child knows or thinks she knows about the tragedy. Even young children are often aware of more than adults give them credit for their thoughts and observations.

2. Answer a child's questions simply and honestly. Be careful not to give child more details than they asked for at any given time. Bits and Pieces are better than overwhelming the child with "adult details."

3. Let a child know you are available to talk...and when they are ready listen without interrupting.

4. Let a child have time to grieve, express fears, be angry and to heal.

5. Encourage a child to creatively express her feelings: draw, read, write letters to Mommy, to sing their favorite songs, play with clay or build a lego tribute.

6. Let a child go outside and play and be active to run off anxiety and anger they feel from themselves and those around them. Discourage aggressive and destructive computer/video games.

7. Try and keep child's previous routiines as normal as possible. Children can also grieve the loss of a pre-event schedule that was predictable and provided feelings of security and safety.

8. Be Patient and Flexible--You are the adult. Children grieve intermittently just as adults do. They may cry one moment and be ready to go play the next.

9. Remember a child's recovery from the loss of a parent takes time. It will always be a part of their lives but with help will be a healthful one for dealing with future life events and losses.

10. Seek support and counseling both for you as the adult caring about the child's grief recovery and for the child suffering from the loss of a Mother. There are an abundance of resources available locally and online.

 I will always remember you Momma....Will you remember me??

We have a date to meet in again in a Better Place.  Love & Kisses xoxoxoxo