When an adult enters into palliative care or hospice they often have children or grandchildren in their life who deeply care about them. Adults are typically worried about what to tell their children, and will look to their care team for guidance. As child life specialists we are trained on the importance and impact a well timed and appropriately worded conversation can have. Using evidence-based practice, learn how to guide your adult patients in having conversations about dying and death with the children in their lives. You will leave feeling empowered with concrete examples on how to help your patients and their children or adults with cognitive disabilities cope best while going through this period. Bring your questions and challenges–we are here to provide guidance and support.

Learning Outcomes

1) Understand the importance and value of having early conversations with children about dying and death. 2) Learn developmentally recommended language and techniques for conversations with children of all ages/developments.