My grandfather just died, and I would like to talk to my daughter about his death? How do I do that?

If we were honest, all of us would admit that talking to a child about death is difficult. We don’t want children to be sad, or we are afraid that we will not be able to handle their reaction. Perhaps we may be concerned that we will say the wrong thing. I found that talking to children does not have to be difficult. We must always remember to give them permission to grieve in their own way and in their own time. Always be honest. Speak the truth which is age appropriate and do it with lots of love. Be gentle and show patience. Children often ask questions, and we need to be willing to answer them. Encouraging children to participate in the visitation and the funeral service is very beneficial for them. Explaining to children what will happen before the visitation and funeral service is important. Most children want to honor that person that they loved by being a part of the celebration. Remember, “Any child old enough to love is old enough to mourn” (Alan Wolfelt).