How do I tell my kids about a diagnosis?

When a family receives a terminal illness diagnosis, a specific type of grief occurs that may be unrecognized. It’s known as anticipatory grief. In this episode, Allie, a Certified Child Life Specialist, educates us about anticipatory grief, its impact on families, and how to navigate this challenging experience with children. You’ll hear personal insights and practical strategies for families to cope and adapt to past, present and future changes, emphasizing the importance of naming emotions, reframing perspectives and finding joy, even in the midst of grief. To find Allie, visit https://childlifetogo.co/ or on Instagram at @child_life_to_go.For our resource about supporting children and teens through anticipatory grief, visit https://inspirehopeathome.org/supporting-grieving-children-tip-sheets. To learn more about how to navigate change as a family with young children, visit https://inspirehopeathome.org/navigating-change.00:00 Introduction to Anticipatory Grief03:10 Understanding Anticipatory Grief06:10 The Impact of Anticipatory Grief on Families08:50 Navigating Anticipatory Grief with Children11:55 Concrete Strategies for Families14:49 The Dual Process Model of Grief18:06 Building Resilience Through Anticipatory Grief20:41 Practical Tips for Families23:49 Finding Joy Amidst Grief26:42 Conclusion and Resources