From divorce to losing a family member or pet, there might be some times you have to explain the unexplainable to your toddler. Here's some helpful advice
A toddler won’t have the same sense of loss and grief as you when a close relative dies, says consultant educational psychologist Charles Ward (www.wardpsychology.co.uk). But she will still realise that someone isn’t around anymore. “It’s OK to show your emotions,” says Charles. “Say, ‘Mummy’s crying because she misses grandma’. Be truthful and matter-of-fact. Explain that grandma’s body stopped working. Then add your own beliefs, whether that means heaven or simply that grandma isn’t coming back.”
Counselling can help you cope – try Cruse Bereavement Care (www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk). Reassuring your child and making her feel safe is important at this time, too.
