Raising Children Network: the Australian parenting website
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Coping during sickness or after a death

By Raising Children Network
 
 
Keeping regular routines during stressful times is one way of helping children feel more secure and in control. This is the case whatever age children are.

During these periods, parents often relax discipline and the usual house rules. But trying to maintain the usual rules and limits can actually help minimise behavioural problems.

If possible, also arrange for your children to spend time with familiar people. This will help them cope with altered circumstances.

If your child is ill:

  • Usual sleep patterns and mealtimes will often fall away while your child is recuperating.
  • As your child returns to health, return to the regular sleeping and eating patterns.

If you have a child in hospital:

  • Brothers and sisters will need to continue with their lives – when possible, it is best if they can keep up their usual activities.
  • Continued routines will help siblings cope with the disruption in their lives.

Following a death:

  • Children can feel loss and grief from a very young age. It is important to clearly explain the death to your child in a way she will understand and to be open with your own feelings.
  • Try to maintain your child’s regular schedule to minimise emotional upheaval.
 
  • Last reviewed08-05-2006