When young children grieve: Supporting daycare children following bereavement — A parent’s perspective

Abstract

Thirteen parents who lost the mother or father to their child were interviewed, using semi-structured interviews. Participants reflect on their young children’s (3–6) grief, support needs, and what they learned from this trying time. The event scarred all participants. While some moved on, others were still struggling years after. The study uncovers difficulties associated with informing a young child, with a limfited understanding of illness and loss, in a life-situation where parents themselves are clinging to hope. While support is available from daycare, it can be better organised and structured. Proactive support that assists the child through illness and death relieves the parental care burden.