How to talk to children about death

When kids experience a loss - whether that's a loss of a pet, grandparent, or friend - they often look to their parents or other caregivers for answers. Since children do not have enough language to express their grief, adults are often fooled into thinking everything is OK, when it's not.

"Childhood has been taken away overnight and, as a result, kids are often left dealing with huge existential issues without the psychological tools to manage them," explains Dr Shelley Gilbert MBE, founder of Grief Encounter.

Often, grief is most intense soon after someone dies. Your child may feel numbness, shock, or disbelief. Many kids experience these feelings sporadically, as they come and go. But for some, it can take time for the reality to sink in that the person they love is gone.

Psychotherapist and counsellor, Olivia Djouadi, explains that young children may not understand that a death means gone forever, while older kids may worry that other people may leave forever.

While they are trying to process this loss and what it means for the future, reviewing the stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance) with your child is essential. This will help validate their feelings and reassure them that the waves of ups and downs they are experiencing are normal.

When talking with them about the stages, make sure to remind them that we all go through these at our own pace and there is no right or wrong way to do it.

Your child may feel depressed, angry, confused or anxious. They now understand that people they love die, and this is terrifying. And if a child or teen has experienced multiple losses, they may have a deeper fear of abandonment and self-doubt. Emotions may range from anger, fear, and blame to sadness, hopelessness, and disbelief.

Grieving is often a messy process for teens. They may become impulsive with their actions or they may withdraw and become depressed. Often, both of these extremes are experienced.

How parents can help their child through the grieving process

The best way to support your child is to stand beside them, talk openly and honestly with them, listen, and help guide them as they go through the grieving process. You should also allow them to grieve in their own way. While kids often need guidance about the grieving process, adults need to make sure that they validate their feelings.

Don't be afraid to talk about the person who died. An essential part of the healing process is telling stories and remembering. Just bringing up the name of the person who died is a way to give kids permission to share their thoughts, feelings, and questions about the person they lost.

Teens often ask more questions about life and religion after a death. Be there to listen and help them explore their ideas about the meaning of life. It is normal for older kids to question their values or spiritual beliefs. Try to offer a non-judgmental, loving ear.

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Tips for talking with your kids about grief and loss

When it comes to communicating with your child about death, being aware of their age and emotional intelligence will help you direct the conversation. Gilbert says, to be honest, use concrete language and give kids time to process. You should also be ready to answer their ongoing questions about the loss.

Kids typically don't discuss feelings in the same way adults do. If your child is having a difficult time opening up, you might want to consider other ways to reach them, such as physical activity, writing, and artistic expressions. Engaging in exercise while they share feelings is often one of the easiest ways for kids and teens to express themselves.

Being imaginative with creative opportunities for them to express how they feel is also helpful for kids processing death. Djouadi recommends making a picture book or scrapbook with your younger child. They can add memories about the person as you talk through the grieving process with them.

If you have a teenager, it's important to follow up with them after your initial conversation. Even though they appear to be 'just fine' and ready to move forward, inside, they may be falling apart.

"As kids get older, they have a better understanding of death and it can feel devastating for them; yet we often expect them to immediately jump back into their routine," says Djouadi. That's why she says to ask teens what they want to do and respect that.

It can also be helpful and comforting to give kids and teens permission to put their grief and sadness on hold. It is healthy to experience happiness as they move on with their lives.

Most importantly, continue to provide routine and structure for your kids, regardless of their age. Children benefit from an environment that is familiar - it helps them feel safe and secure. It also gives them a sense of control in a chaotic time.