Children react to loss and grief differently from adults.
Parents should be aware of normal childhood responses to loss and grief, as well as danger signals. Some children feel immediate grief while others may deny the loss. But long-term denial or avoidance of grief is unhealthy and can result in more severe problems. Sometimes a ritual or observance to mark the loss and validate its meaning can be helpful. Ideas can include as lighting a candle, writing a letter, framing a picture, adding to a lifebook or saying a prayer.