ABSTRACT
The guidelines offered are based on general principles and may be applied to most situations. In extreme cases, when the child has been exposed to severe trauma, referral to a specialist should be considered. Talking to children about death exposes adults to feelings of helplessness and uncertainty, making them vulnerable to questions that may have no answers. Although child and adult experiences of grief are different, children are people and children do grieve, even very young children. The following guidelines on communicating with children build on the experience of Barbara Monroe at St Christopher's Hospice and other people working with bereaved children and families. The guidelines are talk at eye level; speak directly to and with the child; avoid confusing and ambivalent language; avoid clichés and platitudes; keep explanations short and simple; check the child's understanding; be truthful and honest; keep them informed; and keep the dialogue open.
