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Death is one of the most difficult concepts for kids to understand, so when you broach the subject, do so with sensitivity. With their experience working with families throughout the grieving process, Whitley's Funeral Home in Kannapolis, NC, understands the best practices for handling these challenging conversations. Here is this funeral home's guide to explaining this life event to your little ones.

Recommendations From a Funeral Home for Teaching Your Kids About Death

Be Clear & Direct

When the conversation occurs, be simple rather than presenting confusing explanations. Sometimes parents are tempted to rely on euphemisms like the deceased “went to sleep,” or “went away,” but it’s best to avoid them. They add a layer of confusion and can make a child afraid of sleep or travel.

Offer Love & Support

Children have various reactions to death, but it’s common for them to display fear and vulnerability. Let them know they’re safe and loved by you. Also, allow them to ask questions so they can express their thoughts rather than harboring them. Additionally, some kids instinctively take blame when someone dies, so reassure them that they shouldn’t feel guilty.

Model Good Behavior 

Death is unfamiliar for kids, so they’ll be looking to you for reaction cues. Take some time to let them know that sympathy and affection toward those grieving is appropriate. Take the lead by displaying this behavior during relevant situations, such as offering condolences to the deceased’s surviving family following funeral services.

Whitley's Funeral Home is a helpful resource for mourning families in Kannapolis. Founded in 1919, the funeral home has a long track record of providing support throughout funeral and memorial service planning. You can call them to discuss anything from the cremation process to discussing death with your children. Get in touch by dialing (704) 933-2222 or by visiting the funeral home’s website.

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