Psychologists and education experts are advocating for schools to proactively address grief, not just in response to immediate loss. Research indicates over 75% of children under 16 have experienced the death of someone close, including family members or friends, and are also impacted by public tragedies. Currently, grief education isn’t mandated in Dutch primary school curricula or teacher training programs, leading to inconsistent support for students. While many schools have grief protocols, experts find them often outdated and insufficiently focused on children’s individual needs. Approaches vary widely depending on school leadership and individual teachers, with some hesitant to address the topic. Experts emphasize that unaddressed grief can lead to prolonged emotional distress in children, highlighting the need for structured support within the educational system. The call for change comes amidst increasing awareness of childhood bereavement and its impact.
