How do I explain death to a child without scaring them?
Use clear, simple, and honest language. Explain that death means the physical body has stopped working and cannot come back. Avoid confusing metaphors (like "went to sleep") and instead focus on what the body can no longer do (breathe, move, or feel).
What if they keep asking the same questions?
As children grow and hit new developmental milestones, they will revisit the loss to understand it in new ways. Be prepared to offer the same honest explanations as they process the information at deeper levels over time.