Grief support

Children have unique developmental needs when coping with and understanding the illness, injury or death of a loved one. 

Our Helping Children of Adult Patients consult service includes members of our pediatric team who have specific grief and trauma training and expertise in child development, social work, counseling or child life. We offer free support for children (18 years and under) in the families of adult patients who are experiencing a life-altering illness, injury or death, along with guidance and resources for parents and caregivers to help support and talk with their children.

Services are available for immediate and extended family members (children, grandchildren, nieces/nephews, etc.).

If you feel this service would be beneficial to you or your children, you can request a consult from your family member’s medical team. 

Developmental stages of grief

Children address grief in different ways, according to their ages:

• Ages 0-2
• Ages 3-5
• Ages 6-12
• Ages 13+