At its most fundamental, loss is the experience of disruption or separation from people, places, animals, possessions, dreams or expectations. For a child a loss may be based on safety, comfort and familiarity, rather than what adults speak of as love or affection. Losses in childhood can be grouped into six categories:

Relationship loss (such as through death or separation from people and animals)

The loss of an object that gives comfort and connection (a favourite blanket, item of clothing or jewellery)

Loss of a secure, familiar environment (changes in family structure or the impact of disasters)

Loss of self (ways of being and doing that define us uniquely such as the impact of abuse or physical injury)

Loss of skills, abilities and competencies (illness or disability)

Loss of familiar habits and routines (changes in daily routine or care arrangements)