Once, or whenever a loss happensGuideline

Learn how to talk to a child about death
Plain words, the truth, and never "gone to sleep".
Why It Matters (Clinical Guidance)
- Say the person died and is not coming back, is not in pain, and that it is not the child's fault.
- "Gone to sleep" can make children afraid to sleep. Let them choose whether to join the rituals.
- Get help if sleep, school or mood problems last, or if they talk about harming themselves.
Primary Citation: American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org)
Last checked: October 2026 • Medical review panel forming