The loss of a beloved friend or family member can be painful and confusing for anyone. Even adults may need extensive grief counseling to cope. However, for a child, the loss can be bewildering. To help your children deal with such an event, it helps to talk to them about death in ways they can understand. Below are some suggestions to help you discuss the situation so your kids can process what has happened without becoming frightened or distressed.

How Do You Discuss Death With a Child?

Remain Calm

It's okay to demonstrate sadness when talking to your child about death, but it is important that you remain calm. If you become upset or overly emotional, you could scare and further confuse the child instead of providing effective grief counseling.

Be Honest

Don't try to shield children from the unpleasant truth by dissembling. For instance, never tell a child that the departed may return one day. Be honest with them. Explain what has happened and tell them what to expect. Answer any questions they have as honestly as possible.

Use Simple, Clear Language

Some parents fear their child is not old enough to understand the concept of death and, as a result, use figurative language that simply flies over their head. Instead, tell them simply and clearly that death is a natural part of life and that it's okay to feel sad about the loss.

Let Them Express Their Feelings

A key component of grief counseling is allowing people to express their sorrow appropriately. Encourage your children to discuss how they feel. Share memories of the departed and talk about what he or she meant to both of you. Provide comfort and strength.

Helping you and your family deal with grief is one of the key functions of a funeral director, and our compassionate professionals at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home in Trumbull, CT, are there for you when you need them. For more than 100 years, our family-owned and -operated business has been helping families in and around Fairfield County work through their loss. For more information on how to talk to your children about death, call us at (203) 373-1013.