In the earliest moments of grief, what we often need most is not answers—it’s people. For children especially, loss can suddenly make the world feel unfamiliar and unsafe. What helps isn’t having the perfect explanation or saying the right thing. It’s being surrounded. Familiar faces in the room. Extra voices at the table. A quiet but powerful reminder: you are not alone in this. We know from research and lived experience that strong social support is one of the most protective factors for griev