Very interesting read.
When my eldest first came to me about death, she was only 4. She was scared. She heard her grandparents talking about a funeral they were going to.
It took a few goes, but we got there. I told her the truth as I knew it. I explained everyone dies. It is part of life. Each of us have a choice as to what we believe.
We went through a few scenarios and what I believed.
We talked about the spirit realm from the movie Kung Fu Panda.
I tried my best to keep it at a level I thought she was at.
When her expected cousin died before she was born, I didn't shield it from her. She processed it along side all of the family.
There is no right or wrong way I believe. It depends on your child, on your own being. To me, I will always be as transparent as I can - at a level that meets the situation.
We have a safe word too - if what I am saying is too much for my daughter - she will say. Mum. That is enough for now.
Challenging topic - none the less.
Thanks for shining a light on it.
Thanks for being you.