Helping Children Grieve: Understanding Loss Through a Child’s Eyes

In this episode of JPF First Aid, we speak to Anne Scanlon, a counsellor with over 24 years’ experience specialising in bereavement and anticipatory grief. Anne has worked extensively with children and young people in hospice and educational settings and now runs a private practice. She shares her expertise on how grief affects children differently to adults and why inclusion and communication are vital in helping them process loss.

Key Takeaways

Children process grief differently from adults; they often jump in and out of emotional states quickly as a natural coping mechanism.

Including children in the grieving process helps them build a clearer understanding and prevents feelings of isolation.

Schools and professionals can play a significant role in supporting grieving children, and training can empower staff to respond confidently and compassionately.

Key Moments

“Adults are in a fast-flowing river of grief… children jump in and out of puddles. One minute they’re in it, the next they’re not. It’s a natural coping strategy.”

“If we don’t talk to children about grief, they fill in the gaps themselves, and they don’t always get it right.”

“Tears are your medicine. They show children it’s okay to feel, and it gives them permission to cry too.”

About the Guest

A BACP-accredited counsellor since 2012, Anne Scanlon has over 20 years’ experience supporting adults, young people, and children in Solihull, Tamworth, and online. She offers a safe, non-judgemental space to explore thoughts, feelings, and memories, using creative approaches like art and play with younger clients. Specialising in bereavement, Anne helps individuals navigate grief by giving voice to memories and emotions. She empowers clients to understand themselves, build resilience, and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.

About the Host

John Fogarty has a training background dating back to 2005, with achievements including a teaching qualification and assessor standard. He has previously worked with two first aid charities, delivering sessions in workplace and educational environments.

John has consistently received excellent feedback for his delivery and customer service, as evident in numerous reviews. He ensures learners enjoy and achieve their goals, and works with customers to select the right courses and resolves any issues promptly.

Find out more at www.jpffirstaid.co.uk/

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