Mother’s Day is coming up and for some that can bring a sense of dread. You may have lost your mum or supporting a child through a bereavement. Constant reminders of mum everywhere can make it a challenging time.
In preparation for Mother’s Day, Jane our Bereavement and Counselling Services Manager will be sharing some tips to help you through it. In this blog she has some helpful tips on how to support your child through Mother’s Day. You can also read some advice on supporting bereaved mums here.
Mark the day
Do something to mark the day. This could be visiting her grave, sharing happy memories or making a card. Other ideas include reading a story that Mum used to read or looking at favourite family photos. Alternatively, you could do some cooking or baking just like Mum used to make.
With everyone around you talking about Mother’s Day, celebrating in your own way can help your child grieve and heal.
It’s ok not to be ok
Let your child know it is a difficult time and that it’s okay to feel sad. Especially if it is the first Mother’s Day without Mum, they may need a little extra support to get through it.
Remember that children grieve in different ways. They may seem like they are okay, or they may be behaving differently at this time.
Talking to them about their loss can be a big help. Your child may be wanting to discuss it so give them the space to do so.
Involve everyone in supporting your child
To avoid any difficult experiences for your child, remember to let other adults in their life know that they might be having a difficult time.
This could be reminding your child’s teacher that their Mum has died. Or informing the staff at any activities they might attend. Teachers may be wondering how to tackle this difficult subject too and need your advice on how to do it. Others will want to be involved in supporting your child through Mother’s Day too.
This will ensure they are sensitive in any activities they organise and that your child isn’t forced into awkward situations.
Useful Services and information:
If you or your child are, or have been, supported by our bereavement team you can always get in touch for additional support, no matter how long it’s been. Call 01273 273400 and ask to speak to the patient and family support team.
- Read our helpful leaflet on ‘What to say to children when someone they love is dying’.
- Cruse Bereavement Service offer a bereavement helpline to give support as you need it. In addition, you can also find resources on how to support your child on their website here. or call 0808 808 1677
- Winston’s Wish has a wealth of resources and advice on how to support your child through bereavement. This is whilst also dealing with your own grief. They also have a freephone helpline you can call on 08088 020 021
- Childhood Bereavement UK supports families and educates professionals when a baby or child of any age dies or is dying. They also support when a child is facing bereavement.
Published 05/03/2022