Discuss ways of helping a child cope with grief.

Answers will vary. First of all, a frightened child should not be forced to attend a funeral. Another kind of service or observance may be more appropriate for them, such as lighting a candle, saying a prayer, or visiting a grave site at another time. Many helping professionals suggest avoiding the use of euphemisms that deny the reality the children face-euphemisms such as "Aunt Jane is sleeping comfortably now". They also suggest responding to children's questions and worries as honestly and openly as possible, but in a way that reassures them that you are available to help them cope with their loss. But here, of course, we again run into the issue of what the reality of death is; the person who believes in an afterlife, the agnostic, and the atheist all have different versions.
It is generally advised to let children know that they can express their feelings openly and freely without fear of criticism. Spend time with them, providing emotional support and reassurance. Also, be aware of danger signals-such as loss of sleep or appetite, depressed mood for several weeks, the development of excessive fears (such as fear of being alone), withdrawal from friends, a sharp decline in school performance, or refusal to attend school-that indicate the child may need professional help. There has been debate as to whether it is best to encourage children to let go of their ties to the person who has died, reach some sort of "closure," and "move on" with their own lives. Research suggests that it is possible for children to maintain their bond with the deceased person even while they continue to grieve, invest in other relationships and new activities, and learn to live under the changed circumstances.