cover image How Do We Tell the Chi -Op/111

How Do We Tell the Chi -Op/111

Dan Schaefer, Christine Lyons. Newmarket Press, $16.45 (145pp) ISBN 978-0-937858-60-8

Parents often find it difficult to talk with their children when death occurs in the family. Brooklyn, N.Y., funeral director Schaefer and journalist Lyons bring their combined experience to bear on such delicate moments. Emphasizing reliance on biological explanation (e.g., ""His body stopped working'') rather than on fantasies or euphemism (``He's asleep''), the authors present ``communication contracts'' that parents may incorporate into a family blueprint for children at various age levels. Drawing on the research of psychologists and other counselors, they offer scenarios for children through the adolescent years to help them accept loss and express grief. Parents should find their concepts helpful. (April)