TALKING ABOUT DEATH TO YOUR CHILD IS NOTHING EASY, BUT IT IS AS IMPORTANT AS TALKING ABOUT THE ORIGIN OF LIFE
Death is always a complicated matter since even as adults we are afraid and we have a hard time accepting it. With these recommendations, it will be easier for you to discuss the subject with your little one.
HELP YOUR CHILD WITH THE GRIEF
If you are under seven…
- Ask her to draw pictures to see how she feels and to express her pain.
- Help him name his feelings so he can recognize and heal them quickly.
- Keep in mind that bringing an infant under the age of six to a funeral is not the most appropriate because you do not understand the event.
- As sad as you feel, spend time with your child and fill him with love.
If you are eight years or older…
- If you are experiencing the loss of someone you love (dad, mom, siblings, grandparents…) you must attend child therapy so that you can cope with less complicated grief.
- Let his sadness flow, he will demand more protection and company. Do not belittle or deny it, otherwise, it can transform it into depression, anguish and anxiety.
If you are over 12 years old…
- Take him to the rituals that are customary in your family (wake, masses, burial …), just explain beforehand what will happen in those places and the meaning of each thing.
- If you feel like crying, let him do so freely; hug it to contain it.
- Don’t let any family member tell you, “You must be strong” or “Don’t let your mom see you cry,” because he will only keep his pain to himself and will hurt him more in the long run.
- Be tolerant, approach him and make it clear that you are there to accompany him.
IF YOU OR YOUR COUPLE ARE SICK
Although it is hard, you will have to make it clear to your son that you and we will all leave this planet someday, but let him know that it is a subject that for the moment should not worry him. First of all, be honest: if you must explain the death of one of his parents, the surviving father must always give the news so that he feels certain tranquility.
RITUALS TO REMEMBER AN ABSENT PERSON
- Have photos and memories of your close relative.
- Light a candle on your birthday.
- Don’t be afraid to talk about the person who died and comment anecdotes or memories.
- On Day of the Dead put an offering in your honor.