It is already a known fact that death is an inevitable part of life on various levels. However, discussing it can be pretty tough and challenging, especially explaining it young children. In fact, some parents tend to avoid these conversations.
Even though some parents choose to avoid discussing things that upset them, talking about death to young children could be beneficial to them. According to Child Development Institute, talking about death could help prepare kids for a crisis and could help them when they're sad. It could also encourage them to be open and honestly communicate about their feelings.
So, how should parents talk to their children about death? Canadian singer Celine Dion, who lost husband René Angélil and brother Daniel Dion just days apart earlier this year, has shared some pieces of advice on how she discussed Angélil and Daniel's death to her 5-year-old twin boys, Nelson and Eddy, Entertainment Tonight noted.
In a recent sit-down interview with Katie Couric for Yahoo! News, Dion shared how children's book shook her up and made her realized that she didn't want to discuss death to her young boys what the books have suggested. Luckily, the 48-year-old "My Heart Will Go On" hitmaker was able to find some answers on the popular Disney Pixar film, "Up."
Dion shared the movie "Up" really saved her life as she used Ellie, the character who died in the animated film, as a metaphor for Angélil. The Canadian diva further explained that Angélil is now with Ellie up in heaven, where "they're never sick."
Moreover, Dion also used the helium balloons as symbols that her children could use to send their messages to their dad. As per Good Housekeeping, the "To Love You More" songstress also admitted she was able to turn Angélil and her brother's deaths into a "celebration of life," adding how her fans' unwavering love and support helped her come back to the entertainment scene.
Unfortunately, Celine Dion's life is still plagued of cancer. The reason? "The Power of Love" singer has recently revealed that she lost a brother-in-law because of the disease while her sister is currently battling throat cancer, the cancer type that took the life of her husband, René Angélil.
Meanwhile, experts are suggesting that discussing death to young grieving children should be done in a clear and comprehensive manner, and according to their development level. Just like what Celine Dion did, correlating death to animated films may also be a good idea to start a discussion about losing a loved one.
What do you think is the best way to discuss death to young children? Share your thoughts below and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.
