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How to explain death to toddlers and preschoolers? Therapist shares tips

From avoiding euphemisms to teaching them to celebrate the loved ones, here are a few ways to explain death to toddlers and preschoolers.

Published on: Feb 16, 2024 3:58 PM IST

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Death is inevitable; however, it is also one of the most painful things to deal with. Especially when it comes to the death of loved ones, we fall short of expressions to deal with it. Breaking the news to toddlers and preschoolers and making them understand can be difficult. "As awkward and painful as these conversations are, have them early. Children will naturally grow curious so answer their questions as best as you can. Be honest. Be matter of fact. Hold the space," suggested Psychologist Jazmine McCoy. (Unsplash)

Published on Feb 16, 2024 3:58 PM

Death is inevitable; however, it is also one of the most painful things to deal with. Especially when it comes to the death of loved ones, we fall short of expressions to deal with it. Breaking the news to toddlers and preschoolers and making them understand can be difficult. "As awkward and painful as these conversations are, have them early. Children will naturally grow curious so answer their questions as best as you can. Be honest. Be matter of fact. Hold the space," suggested Psychologist Jazmine McCoy. (Unsplash)

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Even when toddlers and preschoolers may not understand the concept of death, they can sense the emotions that their caregivers go through.  (Unsplash)

Published on Feb 16, 2024 3:58 PM

Even when toddlers and preschoolers may not understand the concept of death, they can sense the emotions that their caregivers go through. (Unsplash)

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From rotten food to dead bugs, kids are already surrounded by the concept of letting things go. It is important to teach them that nothing lasts forever.  (Unsplash)

Published on Feb 16, 2024 3:58 PM

From rotten food to dead bugs, kids are already surrounded by the concept of letting things go. It is important to teach them that nothing lasts forever. (Unsplash)

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We should avoid any kind of euphemisms when we address the concept of death and have the conversation with toddlers and preschoolers.  (Unsplash)

Published on Feb 16, 2024 3:58 PM

We should avoid any kind of euphemisms when we address the concept of death and have the conversation with toddlers and preschoolers. (Unsplash)

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We should keep the language short, factual and concrete. We should also teach them the value of embracing people and celebrating them.  (Unsplash)

Published on Feb 16, 2024 3:58 PM

We should keep the language short, factual and concrete. We should also teach them the value of embracing people and celebrating them. (Unsplash)

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When the theme of death repeats in the conversation with toddlers, we should be patient to understand that it is their way of dealing with grief.  (Unsplash)

Published on Feb 16, 2024 3:58 PM

When the theme of death repeats in the conversation with toddlers, we should be patient to understand that it is their way of dealing with grief. (Unsplash)

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