Grief and death have many facets when observed in children and youth whether through unexpected death, incarceration, foster care placement, etc. For this population, these difficult moments can be voluminous. How and when do we talk about the sudden death or terminal diagnoses of their loved ones? Are there key psychosocial factors related to grieving? Expound on the definitions of grief, death, bereavement, and mourning. Explore the various developmental differences and responses considered “normal” versus complicated grief.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Gain an understanding of how children and youth grieve
- Explore misconceptions and facts about grief
- Be able to identify typical grief reactions and how to respond or intervene as needed
- Recognize the difference between what grieving young people do and do not need
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Understanding Grief in Children and Youth
- Definition and natural reaction to loss
- Types of loss beyond death
- Misconceptions about children’s grief
Objective #2 Grief versus Depression
- Differentiating symptoms of grief and depression
- Understanding healthy grief reactions
- Recognizing warning signs of complicated grief
Objective #3: Factors That Hinder the Healing Process
- Avoidance and minimization of emotions
- Use of substances or distractions to suppress grief
- Importance of emotional acknowledgment
Objective #4: Developmental Grief Responses
- Infancy to age 2: sensitivity to changes and separation anxiety
- Ages 2-5: magical thinking and behavior-based expression
- Ages 5-8: concrete thinking, repetitive questioning, guilt
- Ages 8-12: growing abstract thinking, increased anxiety
- Ages 13-18: existential questioning, role confusion, withdrawal
Objective #5: Common Reactions to Grief
- Emotional fluctuations and mood swings
- Physical complaints like headaches or stomachaches
- Behavioral changes including aggression, withdrawal, or academic decline
Objective #6: Support Strategies by Developmental Stage
- Using concrete, honest explanations appropriate to age
- Encouraging open expression through play, art, and writing
- Maintaining routines with flexibility
- Modeling emotional health and self-care
- Involving supportive adults and peers
Objective #7: Addressing Childhood Grief and Development
- Helping children accept permanence of death
- Supporting coping and adjustment to life changes
- Promoting development of strong relationships
- Fostering appreciation of life and continuity of memories
Objective #8: Key Messages for Children
- Reassuring that they are not alone
- Validating a wide range of emotions
- Reinforcing the continuity of love and security
- Providing honest, age-appropriate information
Objective #9: Guidance for Parents and Caregivers
- Being present rather than providing all the answers
- Creating a safe space for grieving
- Recognizing when professional help is needed
- Encouraging routine, activity, and emotional expression
Objective #10: Special Considerations
- Explaining death by suicide or homicide appropriately
- Preparing children for attending funerals
- Monitoring for signs of complicated grief or mental health concerns
Objective #11: Best Practices: What to Do
- Show authentic care and willingness to listen
- Use clear, simple language about death
- Support emotional expression through safe outlets
- Validate and normalize grief experiences
- Provide consistency, routine, and security
Objective #12: Best Practices: What Not to Do
- Avoid euphemisms and minimize confusion
- Refrain from offering platitudes or dismissive advice
- Resist the urge to force emotional expressions
Objective #13: Final Thoughts and Self-Care for Helpers
- Being emotionally prepared to assist grieving children
- Knowing when and how to seek additional help
- Encouraging resilience through supportive relationships and rituals
- Supporting developmental growth despite grief
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Tonya M. Logan, LICSW, LCSW-C
Recording Date: 4/13/2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com