How do preschoolers often express their grief following the loss of a family member?

Preschoolers often express their grief through fantasy play because this allows them to make sense of their emotions and experiences in a safe and imaginative way. Fantasy play provides a means for children to explore complex feelings surrounding loss while still engaging with their developmental stage. During this type of play, they might enact scenarios that reflect their understanding of death and loss, often re-creating situations where they can express their feelings of sadness, confusion, or longing. This form of expression is natural for young children as they may have difficulty articulating their emotions verbally, and imaginative play serves as a medium through which they can process their grief in a manner that feels safe and productive. Additionally, this approach allows them to regain a sense of control over their feelings related to the loss, facilitating emotional healing.