Discussions about death are never a pleasant experience. As a parent, it can be easy to want to protect and shield your child from the reality of death for as long as possible. Frederick Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH, recommends approaching the topic in a simplistic, casual way so that your child can understand the concept before he or she attends a funeral.

Here are some ways to talk to your child about death:

• Be Honest & Accurate: Euphemisms for funerals or death such as “gone away” or “passing on” can be confusing. Try to be as honest and direct as possible while still being sensitive. The last thing you want to do is cause more confusion, as this will only lead to more intricate questions and harder conversations. 

• Be Reassuring: When children begin to understand the permanence of death, many start to worry about what could happen to their loved ones. If your child asks if you will die someday, try to reassure them: before you do, you will be there to take care of them for a very long time. 

• Practice Beforehand: As a parent, it’s your job to communicate clearly and be ready to answer your child’s questions. Think about what you want to say before bringing up the topic; this will help you express yourself more carefully. If you don’t know the answer to something, don’t be afraid to tell your child you’re not sure. Although it can be difficult to talk about loss when you’re mourning, it’s important to have an open conversation with your child to help them understand and cope with their feelings.

Frederick Funeral Home understands that discussing death, cremation, and funerals is difficult. When you need to plan a service, they will help you honor your loved one in a meaningful way. Visit their website to learn more about their funeral services in Cincinnati, or call (513) 522-3700.