Why grieving children and young people might find the summer holidays difficult

July 2026

Summer can feel really confusing when you are a grieving child or young person and bring up lots of emotions. Our friends at Child Bereavement UK explain why your child might find the summer holidays difficult and some ways you can help them.

Why might summer feel difficult for grieving children and young people?

When you’re grieving, routine can be really important and helpful. School, college or university can help create structure, but summer often means that all goes out of the window. 

Everyone seems to be ‘living their best life’ with posts about festivals, holidays and socialising plans on social media or in group chats. Children and young people might feel pressure to do the same, even if they aren’t ready. Holidays and breaks can also make someone’s absence feel more intense. 

Let them know it’s okay to feel how they feel

Your child might feel sad, angry, numb, lonely, overwhelmed, or guilty for enjoying something. Or maybe they feel annoyed that others don’t get it. You can help your child to acknowledge that things are different and whatever they are feeling is valid. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and there is no timeline for grief. Whether it’s their first or tenth summer without their person, they are allowed to grieve. 

Tips to help your child manage their emotions

Encourage them to understand how they feel – if they are having a difficult day, that’s okay and they can tell you that. 

Encourage them to make their own plans – big trips or parties might feel too much for them so let them know it’s okay to say no to something and help them plan other things, even if they are small. 

Find a way to remember the person they are grieving for – they could light a candle, visit a place they loved, wear something significant for their loved one, or play their favourite song. This can help them feel connected to their person.

Encourage them to talk to someone – this could be you, a friend or a Child Bereavement UK bereavement specialist.

Encourage them to be kind to themselves – some days will be rubbish and some days might surprise them. It’s okay for your child to go at their own pace this summer. 

Where to get support

Child Bereavement UK is a charity that supports grieving children and young people, and parents bereaved of a baby or child, to find hope and rebuild their lives. 

If you’re an adult supporting a bereaved child or young person, you can speak directly to a bereavement specialist on 0800 02 888 40, email ask@childbereavementuk.org, use the live chat on their website childbereavementuk.org or text/WhatsApp on 07418 341 800 (all available Monday to Friday, 8am-8pm).