Discussing Death with Children: A Guide

Handling funeral services is not for everyone; however, funeral homes in Morgan County, IN have proven reliable in such matters. Death is a fact of life that all of us must face. This truth should be taught to children to learn the importance of leading a moral life at a young age. After all, the legacy we leave behind reflects our values in life. Many parents avoid discussing death with their children at all costs, despite it being an inevitable part of life. 

Most children experience the death of something close to them firsthand when their pet dies. Sometimes, they read about it in their storybooks, watch it in cartoons, etc. Only the efforts you have put in place to educate your child about death can pull them through in such situations. 

Children's Stages of Understanding Death 

Understanding the age differences at which children understand the topic of death helps determine how to best discuss the issue with them. 

• In most preschool-level books, characters and animals that have died are resurrected. These ideas lead them to view death as a passing phase that can be reversed. It's hard for them to comprehend death at this point. 

• When a child is five to nine years old, they've already learned a lot about death and its meaning. They don't think death is possible for them at this point though 

• During this period, children completely comprehend the meaning of death and its irreversibility and the fact that everyone will die at some point in their lives. 

When discussing death with children, keep in mind the following: 

• You must be truthful: When addressing death with children, do your best to be open and honest. Persuade them to ask questions about anything they are unsure about. Assist them in reassuring them that expressing their feelings is perfectly OK when someone close to them dies. 

• Be less Emotional: To avoid eliciting an emotional response from the children, you should keep your emotions in check when discussing death. Weeping in front of a child is not a pleasant experience. 

• When children repeatedly ask the same question, it's important to be patient with them. This is how they pick things up. No matter how many times they ask, please make an effort to respond to them in a caring manner. Respond to their inquiries with brief and straightforward responses. 

• Be honest: Don't tell children that only the elderly die. They may lose trust in you if you reveal the truth later and feel betrayed. 

• Children's curiosity about death will only grow as they get older. Do your best to answer each of the questions. It would be best if you also were honest when you don't know the answer to a question. 

Grieving children require reassurance that they are protected, loved, and treasured by others. Assist them in being open and honest about their feelings. Children should be encouraged to continue the hobbies and interests that they find enjoyable, and they should review questions they have about death frequently. 

Contact funeral homes in Morgan County, IN for any matters relating to funeral services.