Grieving parents with young child, help?

This is a sad, tough situation and I cannot say that I have a real answer, but there are some things that need addressed. It may be that the mom is so afraid of losing the 5 yr. old also that she doesn't want to be close to him out of fear. However, it is vitally important that you speak to your brother about getting some counselling (either a pastor or a psychologist or grief support group) for both himself, and especially, for his wife. Although she is not intending to do so, she is doing grave psychological harm to her living son that could affect their relationship in the future, as well as his relationships with women in the future. He may become angry or sink into depression which will affect all areas of his development and his life. Three months is a very, very long time to a 5 year old and your sis-in-law needs to realize that he needs her desperately. It isn't necessary that she "have it all together" but that they allow their son to grieve along with them. Please urge your brother to get help. This is definitely a crisis situation that calls for help for the whole family unit.