The Loss of a Loved One: Telling kids About Death

Telling Children About Death

 loss of loved one

As Allah mentioned in the Quran in surah Al- Emran 

 Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except the  enjoyment of delusion.

كُلُّ نَفْسٍۢ ذَآئِقَةُ ٱلْمَوْتِ ۗ وَإِنَّمَا تُوَفَّوْنَ أُجُورَكُمْ يَوْمَ ٱلْقِيَـٰمَةِ ۖ فَمَن زُحْزِحَ عَنِ ٱلنَّارِ وَأُدْخِلَ ٱلْجَنَّةَ فَقَدْ فَازَ ۗ وَمَا ٱلْحَيَوٰةُ ٱلدُّنْيَآ إِلَّا مَتَـٰعُ ٱلْغُرُورِ

Losing a family member is a difficult and emotional experience for everyone involved, especially when it comes to telling children about the death. 

Kids may not fully understand what has happened and may feel overwhelmed by their emotions. 

It is important to approach the conversation with sensitivity and care to help kids process the loss and support them through their grief.

Use Simple, Age-Appropriate Language

 kids may not understand complex medical terms or abstract concepts related to death. 

Use language that is easy for them to understand and is appropriate for their age. 

For example, you can explain that the person has gone to heaven or is sleeping and not coming back.

Prepare Yourself

It can be difficult to talk about death, especially when it involves someone close to you. 

Take a moment to compose yourself before talking to the children and allow yourself to feel your own emotions as you process the loss.

Be Honest

 Children may sense if you are avoiding the truth or being vague about what has happened. 

Be honest with them, while still being mindful of their age and emotional capacity. Let them know what has happened and that it is okay to be sad or upset.

Allow Them to Express Their Emotions

 Children may react differently to the news, and it is important to allow them to express their emotions.

 Let them know that it is okay to feel sad, angry, or confused and that their feelings are normal. 

Encourage them to talk about their emotions and share their memories of the person who has died.

Reassure Them of Their Safety 

Children may feel scared or anxious after the death of a loved one. Reassure them that they are safe and that the adults in their lives will always be there to take care of them.

Encourage Them to Ask Questions

 Children may have questions about death, and it is important to answer them as honestly and simply as possible. 

Encourage them to ask questions and take the time to listen to their concerns.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

 Grief can be difficult for anyone, and it may be helpful for children to talk to a counsellor or therapist about their emotions. 

If you notice that the child is having trouble coping with the loss, seek professional help to support their well-being.

In conclusion, talking to children about the death of a loved one can be challenging, but it is important to approach the conversation with sensitivity and care. 

By using simple language, being honest, and allowing them to express their emotions, you can support children through their grief and help them process the loss.