This archive report was first published on 10 September 2019.
As I reflect on my experiences with death, I am reminded of the importance of teaching children about this inevitable part of life. My sister passed away on Christmas Day in 2015, leaving behind a young daughter who was only three days old. We decided to keep this information from her until she was old enough to understand, but we soon realized that this approach had its own set of challenges.
Discussing death with children can be a difficult and sensitive topic, especially in African cultures where death is often viewed as taboo. However, it is essential to approach this conversation with honesty and openness, rather than resorting to superstitions or false information. In my experience, not discussing death with children can lead to confusion and misinformation, making it harder for them to understand and cope with the loss.
My own son was only four years old when his grandfather passed away. He had been visiting him in the hospital for several days, watching him struggle with machines in intensive care. On one of the days, he asked to say a prayer, and his words, 'Lord we thank you, for the friends so wonderful, for the food so good, and for family so wonderful, Amen!' were a testament to his innocence and faith. His grandfather passed away that same evening, but my son's prayer had given him a sense of closure and understanding.
As a parent, it is essential to be open and honest with your children about death, even if it is difficult. By doing so, you can help them understand and cope with the loss, and provide them with a sense of closure and peace. In my experience, teaching children about death has been a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience, and I hope that my story can serve as a reminder of the importance of open conversations about this inevitable part of life.
