Should children be involved in the final 48 hours at home?
Children can be involved if it feels right for the family and if they are prepared in an age-appropriate way. In the final 48 hours at home, children often pick up on tension and may imagine something even more frightening if they are excluded completely. Simple honesty usually works best: explain that the person is very ill, their body is slowing down, and they may die soon. Let children choose whether to visit, sit quietly, draw a picture, or ask questions. Some families also find comfort in planning goodbye rituals and memories at home, which can give children a gentle and meaningful way to be included.