How can children begin to understand death and cope with bereavement? And how can we, as adults, support and engage with children as they encounter this complex subject? Exploring how children and adolescents can engage with all aspects of death, dying and bereavement, this comprehensive guide looks at how children comprehend the death of a pet or someone close to them, their own dying, bereavement and grieving. It covers how you should discuss death with children, with a particular emphasis on the importance of listening to the child and adapting your approach based on their responses. The book offers guidance on how your own experiences of loss can provide you with models for your interactions with children on the subject of death.

This is a key resource for reflective practitioners who want to explore subjects such as death, dying, bereavement and funerals from a theological perspective. The book engages readers to reflect theologically on issues of loss, grief, healing, the search for meaning and joy. Such theological reflection is vital for the development of good and grounded pastoral practice. Marian Carter encourages individuals and groups to critically reflect on experience in the light of Christian faith and theology and to become more informed and confident in the practice of ministry in the area of dying, death and the care of the bereaved.