39 Minute(s)
2014 Washington Street
Newton, MA 02462
617-243-6000
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9 Hope Ave
Waltham, MA 02453
617-243-5590
Monday through Saturday: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
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307 W Central St
Natick, MA 01760
617-243-5345
159 Wells Ave
Newton Centre, MA 02459
111 Norfolk Street
Walpole, MA 02081maps
978 Worcester Road (rte 9)
Wellesley, Massachusetts 02482
781-235-5200
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25 Washington Street
Wellesley, Massachusetts 02481
617-219-1520
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Children this age believe that death is temporary and reversible. They may ask questions about the deceased as if he or she is still living (ex: “When will dad be home?” or “How does grandma eat now?”). Preschoolers do not understand the mechanisms of death and may believe that they can cause death through thoughts or wishes. Preschoolers may also fear that they or their caregiver will “catch” the death.
In addition to the reactions seen in birth to two year olds, preschoolers may also have questions related to death, nightmares, difficulty verbalizing feelings and periods of sadness interspersed with “normal” play periods. They may also engage in play that involves death themes, aggressive behavior, limit testing and disobedience. It is not unusual to notice grieving preschoolers having changes in eating habits and bedwetting as well.
It is important not to use ambiguous terms for death such as “sleep,” “passed away,” or “taken a final trip,” as these phrases can cause children to be afraid on their next vacation or at bedtime. Instead use concrete terms like “dead,” and explain that this means the whole body of the deceased stopped working and the deceased can no longer see, hear, feel smell or taste. Emphasize that their loved one was “very, very sick, hurt old” and that you and your child cannot “catch” the death. Answer their questions honestly. Reassure the child that he did not cause the death. Try to maintain routines and schedules as much as possible. Give extra physical closeness (cuddling, hugs, etc) whenever possible.