The loss of a loved one is hard. Under the emotional stress, there’s a lot to do between funeral planning and grieving. If you have young children, take some time from all of this to talk with them. For them, the concept of death is unfamiliar; however, it’s an essential part of helping your child to process and cope with the loss.

3 Tips for Explaining Death

1. Use Simple Words

Avoid using buffering words like “sleeping” and “lost.” These words, though intended to weaken the emotional impact, do your child a disservice by signaling false hope of the loved one returning. The hardest aspect you need to convey is the permanence of the situation. Until they understand what has happened, they can’t begin their own grieving process. 

2. Listen

Give them a moment to process the information; they will have questions. Take the time to answer every one of them. There may be ones you don’t have answers to, and that’s ok. It’s perfectly fine to say you don’t know. Honesty is important.

Be prepared for a broad range of emotional responses. Everyone deals with grief differently. Your child’s initial reaction may not be what you expect. Allow them the time they need to talk, cry, and process this new information and be ready. Grieving together is an essential part of the process for both of you. 

3. Include Them

If your family has any rituals, include your child in them. Allow them to help where they can with the funeral planning. They can help choose photos for the memorial service or the clothing your loved one will wear. Their involvement helps them to see the process through and regain a sense of control in their life after a traumatic loss. 

If you’ve recently experienced the loss of a loved one, Dennis George Funeral Home in Cleves, OH, is here. For over 20 years, they’ve been helping families through the most challenging times in their lives. From funeral planning to burial and cremation services, they’re with you every step of the way. Learn more about their services online or call them today at (513) 941-6700.