We are very lucky that we did not have to expose the Toddler to the concept of death at all up until now!
But somewhere she has heard about it. I suspect the day care playmates had something to do with it! The same little boys who taught her how to “peu-peu” (shooting sound) with a “gun” (any stick)…
She now regularly tells us that when she sees somebody has been hurt on television, or there is talk of someone getting injured:
“He has died!” (“Hy het doodgegaan” ) – With very serious, but also inquisitive eyes.
And then we have to tell her, “No, he is not dead! He only got hurt!”
I believe that we should not shy away from the word, and that we should also learn our children about it. But in a positive, natural and reassuring manner! I want her to have respect for life, and value all that is living. Even insects! But I don’t want her to be afraid of it, and fear for the safety of her loved ones!
I am waiting for the next dead insect that we see lying around. I hope that will aid me in trying to explain!
How do you tell your little ones about death?
