weep with those who weep

Children tend to grieve in spurts, acting fine in one moment and grieving intensely in the next. It also may take a long time for a child to begin expressing grief, long after the adults in their lives have gotten past the worst of it. They also live in the moment and have a hard time feeling that the future is real. So they sometimes grieve things or situations that seem like no big deal to us. However, kids also crave normalcy and structure that seem to make the world right for them.

However, giving shallow or off the cuff advice or comfort, even from Scripture, can cause a child to feel misunderstood and not comforted.(Proverbs 25:20) Take the time to mourn with a child, even of we think it is not appropriate. As we listen and empathize, we can then much more effectively share Scripture and our thoughts. 

Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.  Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.(Romans 12:15-16)

Everyone grieves differently, but everyone grieves!