9. Keep the old traditions and start some new ones.

Children will need to see that life is improving and that normalcy is returning.

TTalk about things working out will make little difference unless children observe them working out. This includes helping children keep a connection with old traditions—favorite activities, outings, celebrations, and rituals. And it also includes adding new traditions to show that their world is improving and moving forward.

Show Extra Tip

    Consider how these statements might help your children:

  • “Mom and Dad are both doing what we need to do to grow stronger.”
  • “I’m seeing a counselor (or, depending on the child’s age, a “Feelings Doctor”) so I can be happier and always be strong for you.”
  • “Things will be better and better in the days to come.”
  • “Mom and Dad have that all taken care of—you just get back to being a great kid. You’re so good at that.”

"What we grieve for is not the loss of a grand vision,
but rather the loss of common things, events, and gestures. Ordinariness is the most precious thing we struggle for."

—Irena Kelpfisz