Date: 10/22/2003 1:34:00 PM
From Authorid: 46527
I think it's pretty normal for kids to go through a stage like this, both of mine did at about that age. Perhaps you could explain to him that when people get old or ill and close to death they no longer fear it or worry that it will hurt, they know that their bodies are getting worn out and that it is time for them to move on. As far as people his own age dying you could maybe say that there are some people for whom God has another purpose, he needs them there to help him rather than leaving them on earth amongst us, although this feels bad to those who are left behind we know that one day we will see them again and we will just have to wait until then. It is normal to feel angry over any death, it's just one of the things that grieving causes, be it a day after the death or a year...it happens. Good Luck!  |
Date: 10/22/2003 1:40:00 PM ( From Author )
From Authorid: 53900
Thanks LSR...I dont remember how I reacted to my dad dying I was about the same age he is now. I just wonder if I am doing teh right thing by being so honest with him. Like maybe he is just to young to understand and deal with death so I should try to soften it a little for him. I never did with my otehr two but it never effected tehm like it does him. He is scared of dying and that it will hurt and what will happen after he dies. I thought that it might not be normal for him to worry so much about it so I wanted to see if other kids were like this at the same age  |
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Date: 10/22/2003 2:03:00 PM
From Authorid: 46527
Honesty is always the best policy....given with a spoonful of sugar of course. Kids like to know where they stand, telling them something untrue would only confuse them and maybe make them feels angry at a later date....there's nothing worse than a child waiting for grandma to come back having been told that she has 'gone to live with her sister'...if you know what I mean! |
Date: 10/22/2003 2:29:00 PM
From Authorid: 62367
Answer your child's questions truthfully but carefully. You did the right thing telling him about Heaven and the rest. Small children are more afraid about being alone/abandoned than anything else. If he asks about the when and how of his own death, just say you do not know. Then talk to him about a really old member of the family as an example of what may happen to him. I was 5 when I attended the funeral and visitations for my grandfather. I have vivid memories of it, especially touching my grandfather's dead hand. I will never forget that nor will I ever touch an embalmed dead person again.  |
Date: 10/22/2003 11:19:00 PM
From Authorid: 53427
I posted this same question a long time ago under my old account. I found the link for you. Maybe some of the advice I was given will help you http://www.unsolvedmysteries.com/usm108663.html  |
