While death might be inevitable, it can be tricky and painful to talk about, especially when explaining it to a child.
Below, we share a few points to keep in mind if you must have this difficult discussion.
What To Keep In Mind When Explaining Death With A Child
Telling a little one about death, including how you reveal the distressing news and what it means for them, will differ depending on the child’s age and their understanding of death and its permanency.
But, generally speaking, the following points may be helpful:
- Be honest and offer the truth about what happened
- Tell them about the death as soon as you can (if they find out from someone else, they may be more upset or angry)
- Don’t make the discussion about death too complicated. Also, a child may not understand the other terms about death, including “lost” or “passed away”, so it is best to use the words dead, died or death.
- Prepare for the conversation. This might include thinking about questions a child might ask and how you may answer them. You may also benefit from practising the discussion with an adult first or having another adult with you when you explain what’s happened.
The website raisingchildren.net.au has some practical advice and suggestions for people who might be in this situation.
Supporting Children Through Grief
Kids Helpline also has a range of tips here, which can be beneficial during this challenging time, such as creating a memory box or book to remember the deceased. They also make the following suggestions:
- Keep routines as normal as possible, as this will help the child to feel secure
- Acknowledge their feelings, and discuss your own and how you’re coping
- Allow them to talk about the loss and ask questions
- Enable them to express their feelings through writing, drawing, play and music
- Let them know that it’s ok to be happy when you play, or if they have a nice memory of the person.
If you or your child is struggling to come to terms with the death of a loved one, there are countless organisations and counsellors who are willing and able to support you, including Kids Helpline, which is available 24/7 on 1800 55 1800.
We list several other support organisations and their contact details in our blog here.
Anton Brown Funerals is a family-owned, Queensland funeral company which was established in 1995.
Our Brisbane-based team of funeral directors are honest, professional, compassionate and understanding, and always put our clients and their needs first.
We go above and beyond to ensure your loved one’s funeral arrangements are tailored to their final wishes and can assist you with burials, cremations, coffins, floral arrangements, pre-planning and more.
If you need help organising a dignified funeral service, we are available to discuss arrangements 24/7, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today on (07) 3217 3088 or send us a message online here.
