Sympathy Gifts
For the Loss of a Child

When parents lose a child, they often lose their own ability to cope with everyday life. Sympathy gifts for the loss of a child can include items to help the parents heal, while taking care of practical issues that have lost meaning to them.

When the World Turns Upside Down

Parents who have lost children often report a feeling of numbness and an inability to do some of the more practical things they once took for granted: walking, sleeping, or eating. The shock of losing a child uproots the normal order of life and can make practical matters of living seem inconsequential and meaningless. At times like these, caring friends and relatives can provide sympathy gifts for the loss of a child to help with the daily routines and offer some time for solace.

Provide Some Comfort Foods

People will bring lots of comfort food during the wake and after the funeral, but much of it will need to be eaten right away. Instead, pack a careful sympathy basket with items that last a while and are both nutritious and comforting in the case of sympathy gifts for the loss of a child.

• Dried fruit and chocolates can help to provide some vitamins and chocolate is said to raise serotonin levels, elevating moods.

• Include fresh fruit, like apples and oranges.

• Add sparkling waters or teas, like chamomile, to the basket as some herbal teas can soothe the nerves and help with sleep in times of stress.

Phone and Visit After Others Have Left

Two to three weeks after the funeral, most people are moving on with their lives and have a tendency to forget someone who is grieving. That’s the time to phone and offer to help with errands and other chores, which might be difficult for the surviving parents. You can also take them to lunch or spend time just being there for them. There are many forms of sympathy gifts for the loss of a child.

Assist with Seeking Help

Many parents need a support group when a child dies. If you are a close friend or relative and you are concerned with how they are coping, there are a number of support groups available that can help. Your assistance might be necessary when: