When someone close to you loses a child, it can feel difficult to know what to say, and the fear of saying the wrong thing can make us anxious. Here are a few ways you can help:
Acknowledge their loss. Saying how sorry you are is a good start. Talk about their precious child — parents love to hear your memories and to hear their child's name. Once a parent, always a parent.
Keep in touch. Keep phoning, send a card, a text, an email — especially after the funeral. Parents need support long into their grieving journey.
Listen. This is much more important than the words you say. Expect tears, and just be ‘present’.
Offer practical help. Rather than “I'm here if you need me”, try “Shall I bring a casserole round tomorrow?”
Invite them to events. They may decline, but invite them anyway. Keep including them, so they feel supported and not alone. Let them know it's okay to say no, and be patient — their world has been turned upside down.