Reactions

"Everyone is coming to this information from a very different starting point and also very different experiences about how they express themselves."

News of a death may not result in a ‘typical’ or ‘expected’ reaction. Pupils may seem unaffected, or they may respond in a variety of ways:

• No reaction/indifference
• Laughter, being silly, joking, making noises
• Wailing, sobbing, screaming
• Confusion, worries, fear
• Concerns about changes in routine
• Changes to eating, sleeping and toileting patterns

For some pupils, it may take time to process the information and their reactions may be delayed, while others may react instantly. It is important to acknowledge that all reactions and feelings are valid.

Further links:

Explaining to a child that someone has died