Talking with Children About Death and Loss

Children do not always express grief in ways adults recognize. Their feelings may appear through behavior, play, questions, irritability, changes in familiar routines, or brief bursts of emotion rather than sustained sadness. Their understanding of death also changes as they grow, which means questions and reactions may resurface over time.

This 1.5-hour live online class offers a compassionate, developmentally informed approach to talking with children about death and loss. You will learn how to use clear, honest, age-appropriate language; respond to difficult questions; recognize different expressions of grief; and create an environment in which children can process emotions at their own pace.

The class also explores common misconceptions, cultural considerations, and trauma-responsive ways to provide stability and reassurance. The goal is not to have every answer, but to help adults approach these conversations with greater confidence, empathy, and openness.

By the end of the session, you will have a clearer understanding of how children experience grief and practical guidance for supporting them through both immediate and ongoing loss.

Open to everyone. No previous knowledge or professional experience is required.

Registration includes a certificate for 1.5 Professional Development Hours (PDHs).

Your registration helps support the Center for Death Education’s nonprofit mission to make accurate, compassionate education about death, dying, grief, and end-of-life care accessible and affordable.