HELP FOR THE FAMILY/PARENTING - When Your Child Asks About Death

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Take advantage of opportunities to talk about death.  If you child sees a dead bird on the side of the road or if a beloved pet dies, use simple questions to encourage him to talk. For example, you could ask: "Does a dead animal suffer?  Is it cold or hungry? How do you know that an animal or a person is dead?" -Bible principle: Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7. 

Do not hide the truth.  When an acquaintance or a relative has died, avoid using confusing euphemisms such as "He has gone away."  Your child might wrongly conclude that the deceased will soon return home. Instead, use simple and direct words. For example, you might say:  "When Grandma died, her body stopped working.  We can't talk to her, but we will never forget her." -Bible principle:  Ephesians 4:25. 

Reassure your child. He might think that his actions  caused some one's death. Instead of just saying that he is not responsible for what happened, you could ask:  "What makes you think  that  it is your fault?  Listen carefully, without belittling his feeling.  Also, since a young child might think that death is contagious, assure him that he is safe. 

Draw out your child. Talk freely about loved ones who have died, including relatives whom your child  has never met. You might evoke fond memories of an aunt, an uncle, or a grandparent and relate amusing anecdotes. When  you openly discuss such people,  you help your child understand that he need not avoid talking or thinking about them.  You can always broach the subject later, when you feel the time is right. -Bible principle: Proverbs 20:5. 

Next time: TRUE PEACE /From What Source? -Will the Afflicted Ever Have Peace?

From the Awake!  magazine, 2015