Talk to children about farewell and illness: a valuable exchange

Talk to children about farewell and illness: a valuable exchange

The examination of topics such as death, illness and disability is often associated with discomfort in our society. While adults often try to keep children away from such encounters, this could be a missed opportunity to convey important life experiences to the small ones. According to the family therapist Christiane Giersen, children often approach such situations impartially and could even benefit from them.

An increasing taboo topic

In recent years, death has been more and more displaced from social awareness. This can be seen, for example, that parents no longer take their children to funerals, even if they know that this experience could be important. Max Pauer, a triple father, admits that he would not accompany his children on such occasions because they were still too small and could become restless during the ceremony. This could disturb the grief of those present, he explains.

The importance of discussions

Christiane Giersen underlines that it is important to be open and honest when dealing with the topics. "When I talk to children about it, it can be a comforting experience for everyone," she says. Due to the open discussions, children can learn that even difficult topics are part of life. An example that Giersen shares is about a sick child who knew that it would die and found the consolation of believing that it would climb into heaven as a balloon and would continue to be connected to his parents.

The handling of disabilities

A similar discomfort is evident in dealing with people with disabilities. These are often hidden from public life, which leads to further isolation. Affected people and specialists report the feeling that these people are becoming less and less visible. Giersen notes that fear is often the reason why people shy away from contact. They recommend talking more openly about disabilities to reduce fear of contact.

Children's curiosity as a model

Children in particular often approach such topics with a natural curiosity. A mother describes that her five -year -old daughter asks why some people are disabled. These open questions could help adults to overcome their own uncertainty. Giersen suggests that we could learn from the children how we can encounter the fear of our own vulnerability with optimism and curiosity.

FAZIT: A social change is required

In summary, it can be said that more open use of death, illness and disability is not only important for children, but also for adults. Through conversations and encounters, as a society, we can learn to accept these topics as part of life and to develop a healthy attitude towards vulnerability for future generations.

- Nag