Credit - Me!
Depending on the situation I would try to do it in a way I would understand. Which made me think about how my mum told me she was dying of cancer.
I would happily explain it the way it was explained to me when younger. My mother sat me down, and explained that she was really ill and there was no way to win the fight against it. She explained the cancer in a child friendly way and how everything would be ok, even if she was not there by our side in body she would be there in spirit. She also explained it would be sad but it would get easier.
If a friend of the kids passed away tonight, I would sit them down and explain to them the situation, if ill. Explain how they could not fight it any more, in a similar way mum explained to me. But if an accident or something they won't understand I would have to be creative, not in a way to lie to them, but to avert the fact their was an accident, in case it was gory or worse. But the truth would come out with minor censorship to protect them if it needed it
When it comes to older children (13) Tell them the truth. It's a lot easier. Ask them if they want to attend the funeral as it could help them understand.
I'm not an expert in any way shape or form but offering my advice for those who want it.
If you have any ways you would do it please drop a comment below, I'm not going to say my methods are perfect, but they worked on me. Hence i share what I know.
Paul
