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Cover of Helping Children Understand Death

Helping Children Understand Death

by Marian Carter

Book Details

Publisher:Kingsley Publishers, Jessica
Published:2016
Pages:224
Format:BOOK
Language:en

Reading Info

Age Range:4-8

About This Book

Coming to terms with death, be it the death of a family member, friend, or pet, and engaging with our own mortality is a complex task, especially for children and adolescents. The book explores how young people comprehend death and cope with bereavement. It also offers guidance and resources for adults who are helping children to understand death.

Our Review

This gentle guide offers parents and caregivers a compassionate framework for navigating one of childhood's most challenging experiencesโ€”the loss of a loved one. The book thoughtfully explores how children at different developmental stages comprehend death and process grief, providing age-appropriate explanations and conversation starters. It addresses various types of loss, from family members to beloved pets, recognizing that each relationship carries unique significance for a child. The approach is both psychologically informed and deeply practical, making difficult conversations more accessible for adults and more meaningful for young listeners.

What distinguishes this resource is its dual focus on supporting both the grieving child and the adult guiding them through bereavement. The author provides specific strategies for explaining death in concrete terms children can grasp, while also offering reassurance about normal grief responses and healing timelines. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful guidance on answering difficult questions and creating rituals that honor the relationship. This book becomes an invaluable companion during times of loss, helping families transform confusion and sorrow into understanding and connection.

Themes

Children and death

Subjects

Children and death