Consider These Thoughts by Kaitlynn Kirby Clark, and Kevin and Lynn Kirby EXPLAINING DEATH While the death of a loved one can be overwhelming for adults, it can be even more so for children. Nevertheless, parents should try not to allow their thoughts and emotions stand in the way when explaining death to their children. As adults find ways to make sense of what has happened, to give expression to their feelings, and to work towards acceptance, they should strive to tell children the truth about what happened, right away. While it may be uncomfortable to use such words as "death" and "died," research shows that using realistic words to describe death helps the grieving process. After that, parents should share details in small doses and be prepared for a variety of emotional responses. No one is prepared for grief. The rush of feelings, the thoughts, anxieties, and heartache can take us by surprise and drive us to our knees. Realize that however you approach the subject of death, your child will be upset, and perhaps, even angry. Accept your child's emotional reactions. You will have time to address things again after your child's had time to process the initial shock. To learn more about the memorial and funeral services we offer, please call J.C. KIRBY & SON FUNERAL CHAPELS AND CREMATORY. We have been serving our community with compassion for over 50 years. QUOTE: "You'll stay with me?' Until the very end,' said J.C. KIRBY & SON FUNERAL CHAPELS AND CREMATORY 832 BROADWAY 820 LOVERS LANE 843-3111 www.jckirbyandson.com James." J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter, and the Deathly Hallows Consider These Thoughts by Kaitlynn Kirby Clark, and Kevin and Lynn Kirby EXPLAINING DEATH While the death of a loved one can be overwhelming for adults, it can be even more so for children. Nevertheless, parents should try not to allow their thoughts and emotions stand in the way when explaining death to their children. As adults find ways to make sense of what has happened, to give expression to their feelings, and to work towards acceptance, they should strive to tell children the truth about what happened, right away. While it may be uncomfortable to use such words as "death" and "died," research shows that using realistic words to describe death helps the grieving process. After that, parents should share details in small doses and be prepared for a variety of emotional responses. No one is prepared for grief. The rush of feelings, the thoughts, anxieties, and heartache can take us by surprise and drive us to our knees. Realize that however you approach the subject of death, your child will be upset, and perhaps, even angry. Accept your child's emotional reactions. You will have time to address things again after your child's had time to process the initial shock. To learn more about the memorial and funeral services we offer, please call J.C. KIRBY & SON FUNERAL CHAPELS AND CREMATORY. We have been serving our community with compassion for over 50 years. QUOTE: "You'll stay with me?' Until the very end,' said J.C. KIRBY & SON FUNERAL CHAPELS AND CREMATORY 832 BROADWAY 820 LOVERS LANE 843-3111 www.jckirbyandson.com James." J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter, and the Deathly Hallows