Bereaved Siblings Month: 7 Ways to Help a Grieving Child

1st November 2026

Every November marks Bereaved Siblings Month. It is a time to recognise the children, teenagers and adults who are grieving the death of a brother or sister, and to remind them that they are seen.

If your family is grieving, or you are a sibling looking for support, this article explains how siblings grieve, how you can help, and where to find free support.

In this news article

What is Bereaved Siblings Month?

Bereaved Siblings Month is an opportunity to acknowledge and support children and young people who are grieving the death of a sibling. This kind of loss can shape how a person understands family, love and connection.

Amy Cooper, CEO of Red Nose Australia, says the aim is to remind bereaved siblings “that their stories matter.”

This November, Red Nose invites families, educators and communities to take a moment to learn about the supports available.

How do siblings experience grief?

The death of a baby or child affects the whole family. At Red Nose, we recognise that siblings often “grieve in unique and individual ways.” There is no single way for a sibling to grieve, and there is no timeline.

Some siblings find it hard to put their feelings into words. Younger children may show their grief through play, questions or changes in behaviour. Older children and teenagers may feel the weight of responsibility. They may feel they need to support their parents or other siblings, even while carrying their own pain.

Grief can also return at different times. A birthday, the start of a new school year, or a question from a friend can bring it back, sometimes years after the loss.

Grieving a sibling you never met

Some siblings grieve a brother or sister who died before they were born.

Ella was eight when she shared her story with Red Nose. Her brother Max died when he was a baby, before Ella was born. She describes what that is like:

“I just always remember knowing about him.”
Ella, Max’s sister

Read Ella’s story →

Annalise also never got to meet her brother Nicholas. She shares:

“Our family always remembers our brother; he’s a part of our family, no matter what.”
Annalise, Nicholas’s sister

Annalise and Nicole Ireland, a bereaved sibling and mother, during Bereaved Siblings Month

Read Annalise’s story →

Ella’s and Annalise’s stories are a reminder that a sibling can be a lifelong part of a child’s world, whether or not they ever met. These siblings deserve the same acknowledgement and support as any other grieving family member.

Siblings from all walks of life

Sibling loss affects people from all walks of life. Dom Field, the Tree of Wisdom from The Wiggles, speaks about his sister Bernadette:

“Before I was born, my sister Bernadette died of SIDS. She’s been a constant presence in my life, even though I never got to meet her.”
Dominic Field, the Tree of Wisdom

How to support a grieving sibling

Every family and every child is different. These seven gentle approaches may help:

Use clear, honest language. Simple, truthful words are easier for children to understand than softer phrases that can cause confusion.
Invite questions, and answer them more than once. Children often come back to the same questions as they grow and understand more.
Let them know all their feelings are welcome. Sadness, anger, confusion and even moments of laughter are all part of grief.
Include them in remembering. Many siblings want to say their brother or sister’s name, share memories, make something or take part in a ritual.
Take the pressure off. Reassure older children and teenagers that they do not need to look after the adults.
Keep routines where you can. Familiar patterns can offer comfort when everything else feels uncertain.
Reach out for support. Asking for help for your child, or for yourself, is a strength.

How Red Nose supports bereaved siblings

Red Nose offers free bereavement support to anyone affected by the death of a baby or child, including siblings, grandparents and extended family. Support for siblings and their families includes:

Resources and activities that help grieving children express themselves in ways that feel comfortable and safe
Practical guidance for parents on meeting a child’s emotional needs without overwhelming them
Peer support groups for parents and children
Counselling and support available at any time, whether the loss was recent or many years ago

Our support is client-led, because everyone grieves differently.

Support for parents

Parenting through grief while supporting a grieving child can feel overwhelming. You are not expected to have all the answers.

Our team can talk with you about what you are noticing at home, what might help, and how to look after yourself too. Supporting siblings helps every member of the family move through grief together, at their own pace.

Find support this Bereaved Siblings Month

Frequently asked questions

Who can access Red Nose support after the death of a sibling?

Red Nose support is free and available nationally to anyone affected by the death of a baby or child, including siblings and their families.

Can adult siblings get support?

Yes. Support is available for siblings, whether the loss was recent or many years ago.

How do I know if my child needs extra support?

Children grieve in different ways, and there is no right or wrong response. If you are unsure or concerned, you can call our 24/7 Grief and Loss Support Line on 1300 308 307 to talk it through with our team.

We’re here anytime you need us.

Call our 24/7 Grief & Loss Support Line on 1300 308 307 to speak with a trained peer supporter who understands what you’re going through. Whether it’s day or night, we’re just a call away.

Compassionate support from people with lived experience. Available 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Call 1300 308 307 Explore our Grief & Loss Support hub