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How to Explain Grief to a Child

Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc. • September 28, 2020

Explaining grief to a child takes patience and compassion. It may be one of the most difficult conversations you’ve ever had. Unfortunately, it can’t be avoided. The conversation needs to happen.

Undoubtedly, we always want to shield a child from the pain of cremation services Bethlehem, PA. Giving grief news to a child is not an easy task and can be overwhelmed when you're grieving at the same time. In such a situation when someone very close to you dies, you are normally unsure about what to say to a child and how to explain grief to a child. You need to find words that your children can easily understand. We created this guide to help.

Prepare them to hear the news

When someone in your family who was attached to your child dies, it's very difficult to explain such grief suddenly. Your child would find it difficult to hear such news and he may express responses such as fear, anxiety, sadness, and interrupted sleep or eating patterns. Make sure to prepare your child and ensure that he is all set to hear difficult news.

Let someone explain who knows the child well

Naturally, the children are attached to a few persons in a family. To explain grief can make your child extremely sad if not properly managed. Someone from your family or relatives who knows the child well can help to explain the grief news to a child in the best possible way. A child always hears from someone who is attached to him.

Pick the right time

Time matters. Your child has mood swings all day, and it is necessary to pick the right time when your child is not tired and can bear the news. You should not be in a hurry at the same time because you have to explain grief at the right time until your child processes the information no matter how long it takes.

Safe and comfortable place

Choose a safe and comfortable place where you can talk with your child without any disruption. There should be a smooth flow in your words while explaining grief and make sure that no one interrupts you and your child. A child will better understand your words and digest what you're saying when there is no interruption.

Be Direct

When explaining grief to your child, never use euphemisms. On hearing that a loved one went to sleep can be scary for your child and can cause serious interruptions in sleeping. Your child will be more likely to be afraid of bedtime and it will affect his future healthy coping skills. Be direct while explaining grief at the right time, right place, and by the right person.

Discuss your beliefs

When you explain a loved one's death grief to your child, it's helpful to discuss your beliefs on what happens next. You can comfort your child that a person still continues to live in a better place.

By following the above few things, you can explain grief to your children and comfort them in the best possible way. Cremation services Bethlehem, PA, is a subject that you will have to think about when your loved one passes away.

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