Helping Children Cope Through Preparation and Education

When Big Changes Feel Scary

When faced with big changes, medical procedures, or the loss of someone they love, kids often experience fear, anxiety, and worry. One of the most powerful tools we have as child life specialists is preparation and education. These help children and their families understand what’s happening, what to expect, and how to cope.

If you’re a parent searching for child grief support in Chicago or wondering how to prepare your child for a difficult experience, you are not alone.

Education as a Tool for Empowerment

Knowledge is empowering. When children understand what’s happening in a way that makes sense to them, fear and confusion begin to lessen. The big words, strange machines, and unfamiliar feelings become less overwhelming.

As a child life specialist, I use age-appropriate explanations paired with hands-on materials to prepare children for upcoming experiences or to help them process what they’ve already been through.

For example, I might use a stuffed animal or doll to demonstrate the steps of a blood draw, or show how to stay still during a scan. We’ll often practice coping tools together, such as deep breathing, counting to ten, or squeezing a stress ball. This preparation not only helps kids understand what to expect, but also gives them a chance to practice coping before the stressful moment arrives.

When working with kids experiencing grief and loss, preparation and education look a little different but are just as important. I may use toys or art materials to explain what will happen at a funeral, or help a child prepare to visit their person in the hospital. I also provide education about the illness or diagnosis that has affected their loved one.

Preparing Families, Too

Support doesn’t stop with the child - families benefit from preparation and education as well. When parents and caregivers understand what their child is going through, they feel more confident offering emotional support, answering questions, and modeling healthy coping at home.

I often work with parents and caregivers to prepare them for difficult conversations. Together, we explore why these conversations matter, how to use clear and compassionate language, and what kinds of reactions their child might have. I also help families better understand the illness affecting them. Just because we’re adults doesn’t mean medical jargon is easy to understand, and sometimes medical teams forget that. That’s where child life support becomes even more valuable.

The Benefits of Preparation and Education

Preparation and education create meaningful change for children and families by:

• Reducing fear and anxiety

• Improving cooperation during procedures or transitions

• Fostering stronger communication within families

• Supporting more positive coping skills

How The Grieving Space Can Help

At The Grieving Space, we provide individualized support for children and families navigating grief related to illness, disease, and death loss. Our services include individual child sessions and sibling sessions, where we prepare and educate children who are facing challenges such as a new diagnosis, terminal illness, end of life, or bereavement.

Closing Thoughts

Preparation and education go far beyond simply sharing information. They are about helping children feel seen, supported, and capable. They give children a voice, and they help families step into difficult moments with greater confidence.

By equipping both children and caregivers, we create an environment where fear and uncertainty can shift into familiarity, understanding, and more positive coping.

If you’re looking for support in helping your child navigate grief and loss, reach out to The Grieving Space for a free 15-minute consultation.