Father's Day highlights challenges for bereaved children, says Child Bereavement UK
Strategies to help children navigate Father's Day without their dads
As people celebrate Father's Day this weekend, Emma Everitt, a bereavement support practitioner with Child Bereavement UK, urges sensitivity towards children who have lost their fathers.
Everitt explains that the lead-up to the day, filled with card stands, social media posts, and school activities, can highlight the absence of a parent and cause feelings of isolation.
She suggests that schools can adapt their activities by allowing children to create cards for someone special in their life like a grandparent or a father figure.
Everitt advises friends and family to reach out and check in with those who may be hurting.
Acknowledging the person’s loss doesn’t remind them; it shows care and concern.
She proposes involving children in the conversation about how they want to spend the day, whether through creating cards, leaving them in special places, planting a tree, or simply going out for ice cream.
These activities provide space to honour the grief and maintain continuing bonds with the deceased parent.
Child Bereavement UK, which has its headquarters in Gloucester, provides a variety of resources for coping with bereavement.
Their website offers videos, interviews, and resources for parents and professionals alike.
They also have a helpline and live chat support, where both children and adults can discuss their feelings.
For those who need additional support, one-on-one referrals can be accessed online.
Everitt stresses the importance of involving children in the conversation and reassures society not to shy away from discussing the loss or pretending it hasn't happened.
Acknowledging grief respectfully can help children and families navigate Father's Day with the memory of their loved ones.