Explaining the Concept of Death to Children

When you’re the parent or guardian of a child, difficult conversations are a part of the job. No matter the topic, however, a good caretaker understands the value of addressing hard-to-discuss issues with compassion and straightforward dialogue. Those tactics should be no different when dealing with death around children in Chicago, IL.

No one ever wants to have to explain death to a young one, and it’s a topic that shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you’re in the uncomfortable position of having to explain the concept of death to a child, here are some tips to guide you through the process from beginning to end.

Open the conversation with questions

Children are remarkably intuitive. Even before you explain what’s happened, your child may already be somewhat aware. So, before you begin a conversation about death around children in Chicago, IL, think about asking them what they know about death.

Don’t lie, and don’t exaggerate

No matter how young your child is, don’t make up a lie that you believe will shield them from a harsh reality. Even young children are capable of handling death if it’s explained to them gently and truthfully.

Remember, it’s not about your feelings

Your specific religious or spiritual beliefs will determine precisely what you say to the child, but remember that—regardless of what you’re going through—it’s essential to assure them that the deceased is not in pain and that the death was not the child’s fault. Make sure that you’re focused on the child’s feelings about the situation, even as you’re dealing with your own emotions.

Don’t be afraid to cry

As much as you should try to stay focused on your child’s feelings, don’t mask your own. It’s okay to let them know how you’re feeling even as you’re discussing their emotions. If you feel like crying, feel free to do so. This will teach your children to embrace and accept their own feelings as they work through the grieving process.

Be patient

You may find that you have to explain what’s happening more than once, especially when dealing with younger children. They may repeatedly ask when the deceased is coming back, for example. Just remain calm and be prepared to repeat yourself as much as necessary.

A sensitive, professional approach to mourning

As the owner and director of Marik-Baken Funeral Services Ltd., Barbara Marik-Baken is a fourth-generation funeral director who has built on generations of knowledge accrued by those that came before her. By incorporating a cutting-edge blend of services that cater to your specific needs, our team of professionals can craft a memorial that works for you and honors your loved one.

We offer a wide array of options for you and your loved one, including pre-arrangement planning, at-need services, traditional funeral services, memorial services and cremation. We may even be able to help discuss death around children in Chicago, IL should the need arise.

We’re poised and ready to help make your transition as smooth as possible. For more than a decade, we’ve built a sterling reputation on the strength of our personal, professional approach to funeral services. Visit us online or give us a call today.

Categorised in: Grief

This post was written by Writer