How to talk to children about things that matter to them

I offer no answers.

This post is just my way of putting out my thoughts on the subject, particularly in the context of Sunday School, which I am involved in.

How do we engage our SS children on topics that affect them personally?

• Death of a loved one.
• A parent's job loss.
• Family breakup.
• Bullying.
• Change of school.
• Their BFF is moving away.
  

Children need a safe environment in which to share the things that are affecting them emotionally.

And they need the Word of God that brings light, truth and wisdom.

SS teachers like me need training on how to respond sensitively, lovingly, wisely and in a way that builds the children's character and life skills.

Today, I met an SS child at school who told me very gravely that her pet rabbit is dying. Afterwards, I saw an FB post by her big sister confirming that the rabbit is going to be put down today.

How do we deal with this at SS?

I guess one way is to get all the kids to pray for the child/children and show sympathy and encouragement.

I read an article on SelfGrowth.com about talking to a child about the death of a pet, and one of the things recommended was commemorating the pet's life in creative and comforting ways.

There's even a YouTube video that sets out the steps a parent can take: