Parenting in the First 3 Years Podcast
#25: How to Talk to Kids About Death
with Michele Benyo
Have you had the death talk with your child yet? Maybe it hasn’t come up. Maybe you think they’re too young. Or maybe you were forced to discuss it after a family pet or loved one died. Experts agree that it’s never too early to bring up the subject of death with your child. And it’s better to bring it up before they have to experience it first-hand. But what’s the best way to broach the subject? And what types of words should we use so our child understands and isn’t afraid?
In this episode, I talk to Certified Grief Recovery Specialist Michele Benyo about how we can initiate these conversations with our children, along with what to do when they experience death in their lives.
Michele is the founder of Good Grief Parenting. After her 6-year-old son died of cancer, her 3-year-old daughter said, “Mommy, half of me is gone.” This heartbreaking statement focused Michele’s career as an early childhood parenting specialist on the impact of grief on young children, particularly after child loss. Michele equips parents and other caring adults to recognize young children’s grief and to provide the support children need to build resilience and cope well with any loss.
Here’s a glance at this episode…
- [06:30] What grief feels like for children
- [08:46] When and how to start talking to your child about death
- [14:16] Why is sibling loss so significant?
- [20:36] How to communicate with caregivers how you’d like them to talk to your child about a death experience
- [22:26] The one thing adults need to do before having these conversations
Grab Michele’s Free Resources:
The Good Grief Guide – 4 simple first steps for parents and caregivers to help a hurting child heal
To the Person Caring for My Child – A letter you can personalize and give to caregivers of your grieving child
Take a moment now to follow the podcast on Apple, Google, or Spotify. It’s the best way to be notified when a new episode drops each week. These bite-sized episodes are perfect for listening during daycare drop-off, an evening walk, or a quick workout.
One last thing. I spend time each morning in meditation and would love to pray for you, your child or whatever’s on your heart. Simply email me and let me know how to pray. It can be as simple just your name or you can give a short explanation. Either way you can trust that I will do it. It’s a simple, quiet way for us to connect and for me to support you on your parenting journey. 🧡