For adults, death is something they know will come to them and their loved ones in time and are more prepared for its inevitable arrival. On the other hand, children will either still be in the progress of fully understanding what it means or, for the younger ones, have no knowledge of it whatsoever.
This lack of comprehension can be utterly devastating and even traumatic if they’re not properly educated about the concept of death and how it affects their lives. If ever someone close to them passes away, it’s crucial to help them come to terms with the loss and guide them in dealing with their feelings about it. This article discusses how you can teach them about the concept of death and how to deal with the grief that comes with it.
Making Them Understand Death
Explaining the concept of death to a child is dependent on their developmental level as well as their innate understanding of it. When coming up with your approach to discussing the subject with them, consider their comprehension of the 4 main concepts of death, which are:
1. Causality – causes of death
2. Finality – the idea that all functioning end with death
3. Inevitability – the fact that all living things have their end
4. Irreversibility – death is permanent and can’t be undone
Check their understanding of each and correct any misconceptions they may have in a way that’s digestible for them. Once all four are taken into consideration, breaking the news about the death of someone they know, love, or care for will require you to be direct yet gentle and caring in tone.
Use easy to understand and straightforward language to explain what happened to them and avoid euphemisms, such as ‘They’ve gone to a deep sleep’ or ‘They’re now travelling to the great beyond’. Phrases such as these don’t clearly express what has transpired and can even cause irrational fears, such as being afraid of going to sleep or travelling to distant places.
Tips To Help Them Deal With Grief
- Encourage them to be open about what they feel
News of a death is certain to make your child feel emotions that are unfamiliar to them. Ask them about what they feel and try to get them to put it into words, as well as explaining to them if they want to know more about such emotions. If they’re still not sure, explain to them that it’s okay not to understand just yet and that it’ll all be clearer in time.
- Provide comfort and allow them time to recover
Knowing about the passing of someone they cared for will undoubtedly be upsetting and painful for them. Let them know that the sadness and other emotions they’re feeling will come to pass in time and that they’re still okay and safe in your hands. Give them some time and space to recover from the loss and be active in their recovery by playing with them, listening to how their emotions are changing, and more.
- Return to their daily routines as soon as possible
The death of someone close to the family can bring about changes to their routine and make them feel anxious on top of their grief. Since children feel comfortable in having routines and knowing what to expect, it’s best to get back to normal as soon as the funeral service in Singapore is concluded.
Conclusion
Understanding death and grief will still be difficult for your child. As such, you must be there to educate them about such concepts and support them wholeheartedly until they become familiar with them.
If you need professional help in holding the final rites of a loved one, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ang Brothers Funeral Services. We offer comprehensive funeral packages for various beliefs, such as Taoist and Buddhist funeral services, that provide a complete service to help ease your burdens. You can enquire with us at 8265 0301 with no obligations to engage our services.
