Explaining the death of a loved one to children is never easy. In fact, many people choose to avoid it because it’s so upsetting. But children need to grieve just like adults, and those who don’t understand death are often left feeling confused, isolated, and hurt. Allow the compassionate staff at Arndt Funeral Home to help you talk to your children about a family member’s death with advice that will make the process a little easier.

Review the following tips and explain death to your children in a way that avoids confusion and related problems:

• Be Straightforward: Refrain from telling your children the loved one is “asleep” or similar untruths. This easily causes trauma when children realize the family member or friend will never wake up. Make sure you don’t say anything you’ll regret or need to take back at a later date. Answer questions directly using age-appropriate language your children will understand.
• Be Patient: Practice patience when talking to children about death, as they may ask the same question multiple times. If you feel like your point isn’t getting across, ask your children if they understand what has happened. Keep using the same straightforward, simple language.
• Don’t Worry About Not Having All The Answers: It’s okay not to have all the answers concerning what happens after death. Many people sidestep talking to children about death for this exact reason. However, saying, “I’m not sure” is perfectly acceptable. Discuss the deceased person’s faith if you wish, what you believe happens after death, what other groups and religions believe, etc. Initiating a discussion with your children and asking them what they think is highly preferable to remaining silent.

Remember, the main point when talking with your children about death is to form answers that demonstrate your concern about their questions and your dedication to helping them figure it out. Take the journey of grief together and let your children know the pain they feel will not last forever. Emphasize the love they feel for the person as what will remain.

Since 1975, Arndt Funeral Home has been providing Rochester-area residents with customized and supportive funeral and memorial services. For more information about how they can help you honor a departed loved one, call (585) 225-6350 or visit their website today.