Grief is a difficult thing to process, no matter how old you are. For children, grief can be especially disorienting. And sometimes, it's not even the grief over a deceased friend or family member. Even saying goodbye to a cherished pet can rock your little one's world, leading to some thorny emotions and complicated questions.

As a parent, there are a few ways you can help your child through the grieving process. The most important thing you can do is be there to listen. Let your child know that they can come to you to talk about their feelings or to ask any questions they may have. At the same time, don't push too hard; allow your child the space to process on their own if that's what they need. Let them determine when they're ready for a conversation.

Sometimes, having a simple memorial and/or burial service can be helpful, allowing your child a chance to say their final farewells and to experience a sense of closure. Raise the issue with your son or daughter, and if they seem receptive to it, plan a small service. Try to get your whole family to participate.

There are a number of ways in which you can help your child remember their lost pet, whether it's by creating a photo album or a memory box. You can also guide them in writing or drawing something to help them memorialize their pet. For some kids, this is a healthy form of catharsis.

At the end of the day, what matters most is just that you're there to support your child, remembering that we all process grief in different ways and on different timelines. Offering a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on, whenever your child needs it, is really the most valuable thing you can do.