I am a single father and my young child often misses her mother, who has passed away. How do I comfort her?

Accept and acknowledge your child's longing without trying to erase it; feelings that are heard settle faster than those that are pushed away. Hug her and let her cry, and tell her that missing her mother is normal and good. Keep her mother's memory alive in positive ways: photos, stories and prayers for her. Give more physical affection, because your child has lost one source of hugs. Make sure there are loving women in her life, such as a grandmother or aunt, to meet part of that need. If her sadness drags on and affects her sleep or eating, get help. See educating the family.