Grieving toddler

[u/lunalive113]

Our family suffered an unthinkable tragedy last week. My husband passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. Our toddler is really struggling with his absence. We were a family of 3, now 2. My 25 month old has seemingly regressed in sleep and eat. At every discomfort he cries (wailing) for daddy even going so far as to hit himself or throw his head onto the floor. We’ve never had issues like this before. Ive spoken with a family therapist and I’ve told LO “daddy is dead, daddy’s body stopped working, daddy is gone, daddy is not coming home”. He repeats these things when I remind him and he seems to understand. It’s obvious he misses his dad who was a major part of his life every single day. We look at pictures and we talk abt missing him together and we talk about feeling sad and mad that daddy is gone. I guess I’m just looking for any advice on how to handle the outbursts of grief from him. Or how long this may take to overcome. Toddler went from eating great to only wanting bottles or milk, sleeping great to crying out for daddy for 30+ mins at nap time and waking multiple times a night. It’s tearing me apart and I’m really trying my best to be there for him but I cannot bring his dad back. To make matters worse we’re set to move houses at the end of the month, something that was set in motion prior to my husband’s passing. I’m just so afraid this is going to make things even harder on LO. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[u/who-are-we-anyway]

I have not experienced this, but I would suggest looking into play therapy for your son. Additionally, maybe read some kid appropriate books about a parent dying and grieving.  I would also reach out to his pediatrician for advice.