Talking with Children about Death: Erin Weisman

Feb 1

Feb 1 Talking with Children about Death: Erin Weisman

Meet our guest

Our Guest, Erin Weisman, was a warm and knowledgeable expert on speaking with children on the topic of death. She invites teachers to talk with children about death using straightforward, basic language. Erin pointed out that children are naturally curious about death and they do not attach emotions that adults may have to the idea of death. If you’re an EC educator, death will come up in some capacity; Erin’s episode is a must-listen that builds confidence when speaking to children on the topic.

Erin Weisman is currently a preschool teacher at The Gan HaYeled PreSchool in Washington, D.C. She spoke at the 2019 Paradigm Project Conference on introducing death to children and has worked with children for years in many important roles.

Erin Weisman can be followed on Instagram @butms.erin

“Allow children to explore and learn [about death] through curiosity and not fear. ”

— Erin Weisman

Teacher Takeaways

Talking with Children About Death

Use honest and straightforward language with children.
- Say death, died
- Define what this means in your own words. Or use Erin’s words below!
  - Erin’s words: “ This means parts of ___’s body are not working anymore. It’s the end of the journey for ___.”
Compare death to cycles. Cycles are patterns that give kids language and a basic understanding of the idea of death. Some ideas of cycles children can connect to:
- Weather
- Seasons
- Sports
Be open about how you are feeling and model these feelings.
- All feelings are accepted and validated.
It’s OK to not know the answer and research with the children. Books are another wonderful resource. (See the list below).
Any discomfort is your own; children are open and appreciate honesty, which leads to a path of trust between you and them.