Grieving children: Free lecture in Kemnath on November 11th!

Grieving children: Free lecture in Kemnath on November 11th!

How are the families in the region who have suffered a serious loss doing? This question is the focus of a special event taking place on Tuesday, November 11th, in the foyer of the Kemnath multi-purpose hall. The Nordoberpfalz AG clinics and the adult education center in the Tirschenreuth district invite you to a free lecture that specifically deals with the topic of “grieving children”.

Dr. phil. Daniela Runkel, psychologist from the Social Pediatric Center (SPZ) at the Weiden Clinic, will lead the lecture. It provides a comprehensive insight into how children go through different grief coping processes. She explains that children show different forms of expression of their grief depending on their age. A central aim of the lecture is to offer practical tips for sensitive support for children and young people in their grief. Information is also given as to when professional support is advisable and what specific offers the SPZ Weiden has in store for affected families. Anyone interested, including parents, grandparents, educators and professionals, is warmly invited to find out more.

The grief of children

The reality is often painful: many adults believe that children do not understand the seriousness of death or do not feel grief. But children perceive changes in themselves and those around them very closely. The loss of a loved one is a concrete and emotional experience for them. Support offers for grieving children begin with a serious awareness of their grief and life situation. A tragic story that illustrates this is that of Lisa, a two-year-old girl who experiences great insecurity and difficulty sleeping after the loss of her father. Children need special attention at times like this.

But how can parents and caregivers help? Everyday structures must not get out of hand; Rituals should be maintained. Children often have frightening thoughts about death if they are not openly informed. Clear words and child-friendly explanations are crucial to avoid misunderstandings. It is important that they know that they are not to blame for the death. Creative activities such as painting, writing or crafts can provide valuable help in coming to terms with the loss and expressing one's own feelings.

Rituals help

Children's grief is not linear and depends on their age and maturity. Understanding of loss develops over time. It is helpful to talk openly about the deceased. The social environment should be included in these discussions to provide additional support. Children's grief groups are a valuable opportunity to share concerns and fears. Individual accompaniment is particularly suitable for children who do not feel comfortable in groups.

The exchange about grief must be done carefully. Compassionate communication that respects each child's individual needs is essential. And yes, even during grief it is important that children can feel joy and fun. Your grief processes are individual and require time, stability and space to process.

The event in Kemnath on November 11th provides an ideal opportunity to explore and find support for this important issue. In order to take part, registration is required. Those interested can find out more on the adult education center website or register by phone or email. Here are the details:

• Website: www.vhs.kreis-tir.de
• Telefon: 09631/88-205
• E-Mail: vhs@tirschenreuth.de

A warm invitation to everyone: take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about grief work with children and how we as a community can help.