Death is something that we do not like to think about, so when we are faced with it, we often find ourselves underprepared. Bereavement and loss are an inevitable part of living and growing, a normal, natural part of life which needs to be discussed openly.  It can feel challenging to talk to children about death. People often think that children do not grieve, but even very young children will want to know what happened, how it happened, why it happened and perhaps most importantly of all, what happens next?

• Be prepared for children to say or do the unexpected, experience has shown some responses or apparent lack of response may be upsetting for adults.  No apparent response does not mean that a child does not care.

• Try to identify any key answers that you may need to prepare, e.g. the facts about an illness.

• End up discussion on a positive note - not all people who are ill or have accidents die - many get better.  Sometimes it might be beneficial for children to do something symbolic to say goodbye- a prayer to remember the deceased, releasing a balloon with a message.