Adults need to be aware of these signs of mourning in order to accurately meet the children's needs. When children's mourning behaviors are wrongly perceived as misbehavior, the children's hurt and confusion may deepen. Anxiety Children may lose their sense of security and fear another death or loss. Young children may become clinging or demanding. Vivid memories Real or fantasized images related to the death can intrude on other thoughts.
Memories can show up as dreams or nightmares.
This is very common. Children who cannot mourn the death during the day may have more dreams and nightmares about it. Sadness and longing Some children cry. Some children try to hide their sadness to protect their parents. Children may long for the loved one, become preoccupied with memories, or may carry an object that reminds them of the deceased.