Grief is a natural part of life but with children, it can sometimes be difficult to know what to do to help them process their grief. Director of Clinical Services Dan Arnold has prepared this short list to help. If you need additional guidance or support we’re here to help. Call 770-677-9474 or jfcsatl.org/counseling.
Signals for attention from a grieving child:
· Marked change in school performance
· Poor grades despite trying very hard
· A lot of worry or anxiety manifested by refusing to go to school, go to sleep or take part in age-appropriate activities
· Not talking about the person or the death. Physically avoiding mention of the deceased
· Frequent angry outbursts or anger expressed in destructive ways
· Hyperactive activities, fidgeting, constant movement beyond regular playing
· Persistent anxiety or phobias
· Accident proneness – possibly self-punishment or a call for attention
· Persistent nightmares or sleeping disturbance
· Risk-taking behavior — Stealing, promiscuity, vandalism
· Persistent disobedience or aggression (longer than six months)
· Opposition to authority figures
· Frequent unexplainable temper tantrums
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