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How to Talk About Death to a Child

Falk Funeral Homes & Crematory • August 10, 2020

Speaking to young children about death is never simple. It takes courage and patience to see the task through. However, it’s not a conversation that can be avoided when a family member passes away.

Talking to your child about death can be very difficult, especially when you’re thinking about cremation services Bethlehem, PA. Even so, you should discuss it to make your kids aware of it. Most adults find it hard to talk about things that hurt or upset them. They often feel uncomfortable when they don’t have answers to some of the questions kids may raise about death. What they do not know is that talking about death can be easy when you know how to do it. Here is a simple strategy you can use to discuss death with your young ones:

Use Clear, Simple Words

It takes a lot of tact to break the news of death to a child. The child needs to see you as someone caring. Use simple, clear, and direct words. For example, “I have sad news. Grandpa died today.” Pause for a moment so your child can take it in.

Listen and Provide Comfort

Children don’t react the same way when they learn of the death of a loved one. Some may ask questions while others may cry. The rest may have no visible reaction. It’s ok. Stay close to the child and provide hugs and reassurance. If the child has questions, answer them as much as you can.

Express Emotions

Don’t let emotions fester inside by allowing the child to talk about their feelings. Tell him or her how you are feeling. The child should be able to trust you and feel comfortable with their feelings.

Talk about Future Expectations

The death of a loved one may lead to drastic changes in the child’s life. So, talk about what’s going to happen in the future without the departed loved one. For example, “Grandma will be staying with us, now that grandpa is gone.”

Discuss the Funeral and Other Rituals

Bring the child along as you go to view the body. Make him or her part of the funeral or memorial service. However, discuss with the child what to expect. Talk about the crowd of people, the singing, sobbing, hugging, and so on. Explain what burial is all about.

Assign the Child a Role

You should help the child build good memories of the departed soul by getting him or her involved. As part of the service, the child could read a poem or sing a song. Allow the child to suggest how they would like to be involved.

Encourage the Memory of the Person

After the burial, it doesn’t help to completely forget about a loved one. Encourage the child to write stories or make drawings about the loved one. You are free to mention the departed person. As you share happy memories, the child will begin to heal.

Give Time for Healing

Grief affects children in the same way as adults. As such, it will take time before the child can get over it. Talk to him or her to know what they are feeling. Allow the child to remember the departed person for good times together. Avoid trying to encourage the child to forget.

While talking about death to a child isn’t easy, you can do it if you follow the strategies suggested above before the cremation services Bethlehem, PA.

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