Child dealing with loss

[1982mommaof4]

My child has experienced her first significant loss of someone important in her life today.

This was someone who was young,seemed fit and well.

He has now asked me if I can die ( we were similar ages)

I don't know how to talk with him about this, it's incredibly sad.

I don't want to lie to him but also don't want to scare him..

Just looking for advice really

See the Winston’s Wish website for loads of good advice. Basically tell the truth in simple language, let them know questions are okay, and be prepared for your child to hop in and out of grief. They might seem happy and unphased one minute and sad/angry etc the next.

You could say something like, ‘normally people die when they’re very old, and it’s likely that I won’t die for a long long time yet, not until you’re all grown up. But if I did die sooner, there are people who would look after you - I’ve asked x person to look after you specially’.

Thank you

It's been such a shock and just so upsetting. I will take a look at the website

This book was a real help for a bereaved child I know. www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwjp-ZnhiNn6AhUfTEEAHTX1Cpc4ChAWegQIGRAB&url=https%3A%2F%2Fblackwells.co.uk%2Fbookshop%2Fproduct%2FThe-Invisible-String-by-Patrice-Karst-author-Joanne-Lew-Vriethoff-artist%2F9780316486231&usg=AOvVaw1_AkLcrz_JL30z8I1SA5XX

How lovely thank you.

My kids asked similar questions when their aunt passed away. I was honest with them and explained that we all die. But usually that would happen when they and I were a lot older. I used the example of older relatives still being alive.

Also don't be afraid of talking to them about your own grief. Because it's clearly been a shock for you too. I didn't necessarily break down in tears in front of my kids, but I did tell them I was sad. Let them see that it is normal to be upset when someone they love dies.

I just feel so sad I started crying which made him cry. I think it's the age. I have only ever lost a grandparent. I actually feel like I have only just realised I could die whilst young.

Feel so silly that I'm 36 and don't know how to approach this

I appreciate everyone's advice x