Talking With Kids About Death

Talking to a young child about death can feel overwhelming. As adults, we instinctively want to protect children from life’s hardships. However, to process what has happened, children need honest, simple explanations in a language they can understand. While it may be tempting to shield them from distressing details, providing clear and truthful information is crucial in helping them make sense of their loss.

Losing a loved one is painful and complex for adults, but for children—especially if it’s their first experience with death—it can be both confusing and deeply upsetting. Each child grieves differently, depending on their age, their relationship with the person who died, and the support they receive.

Breaking the news to a child may feel like one of the hardest things you’ll ever do. It’s natural to wonder, "How much should I tell them?" or worry about saying the wrong thing. But remember, the worst has already happened. We’re here to guide you through this difficult conversation and offer gentle, compassionate ways to help your child understand what has happened.

While it’s natural to want to shield children from death, they are often more aware than we realize. They pick up on changes in their environment and emotions around them. Acknowledging their loss and offering honest, age-appropriate explanations can help them navigate their grief in a healthy way.