ABSTRACT
This chapter makes specific suggestions on what to say to a child in emotional pain from a loss. Most people are uncomfortable in the presence of grief, and we are worried that we may become tongue-tied. Platitudes are often seen as awkward and ineffectual, so some individuals choose to avoid these uncomfortable encounters. Unfortunately, a teacher cannot ignore this issue within her classroom. This chapter begins by emphasizing the nature of an educator’s role in this situation, which sets the stage for generating helpful, comforting conversation with students who are experiencing grief in an empathetic yet professional manner. Techniques of active listening are explained as ways to create a positive connection.
