Guest Blog with Una Archer Help Your Child Thrive, how to start the conversation about life and loss with your little one.

Una was kind enough to spend some time chatting to me about the best ways for parents and carers to start the conversation about life and loss with the children in their care.

Whether you choose to use a Memories Box or not, I hope that you find this video useful.

I hope that it helps and please reach out to myself or Una if you need further advice or support.

• How and when do I start the conversation? – If you are here now watching this video and consider this conversation important, then start now. Allow a space for the conversation to be had and ask them how they feel. Take the child’s lead.
• What if they refuse to interact? – Don’t panic, accept and try again another day, without pressure.
• Should I leave them to complete the activity alone or do it with them? – This type of craft (the button memory tree) evolves over time, so parents involvement should be available as this is to help conversations between adult and child.
• How much should I tell them about the preparation for or death itself? – It really depends on the child’s ability to understand and what they and the parent feel comfortable with. It is best if the parent knows how they feel themselves before discussing with your child.
• What if I cry, should I not be the strong one? – Tears do not mean that a person is not strong, an adult is still the one who is there for the child.
• How will I know if my child needs further support from professionals? – Pay attention to their changes in habits, altered sleep pattern, changes in behaviour or appetite. It is best to seek help and support early on as wellbeing and mental health of a child is so important.

Una Archer is passionate about supporting secure attachment in parent-child relationships.

She has dedicated her life and career to understand family dynamics.

With over 20 years of experience and qualifications that include ‘Circle of Security Parent facilitator training’ and ‘Brainspotting Therapy’ and being a mother herself she can offer such invaluable support.

Pop over to her site to book a free initial consultation

https://www.helpyourchildthrive.co.uk/

Thank you Una

With love to all

Helen x