Realize that feelings are not right or wrong. They’re simply what your child feels.
Acknowledge the hurt and the reason for the grief—the elephant in the room.
Tell the truth in a straightforward, loving way instead of providing a la-la land experience.
Remember that children grieve differently than adults.
Don’t promote a victim mentality that will shape your child’s worldview negatively. Instead, approach hurting and injustice as a learning experience.
Teach your children when to endure, stay, and fight, and when to run away for their own safety.
Provide an always-listening ear and a nonjudgmental heart.
Give your child age-appropriate ownership of the solutions.
Be a realistic champion and encourager. Tell your child, “Rough things happen in life, but I believe in you. You can rise above this situation.”
Focus on growing a loving, supportive parent-child relationship. If your children are safe and secure in your home, they can overcome nearly anything tossed their way.