Tell the truth simply, then stay available.
Children usually need clear words, small pieces of information and repeated opportunities to ask questions.
Use direct, concrete language. Give one clear fact at a time, answer the child's actual questions, and expect the conversation to happen more than once.
Use direct words
Use words such as died and dead rather than only saying someone “went to sleep,” “went away” or was “lost.” Euphemisms can create new fears or confusion, especially for younger children.
A simple starting sentence
“I have something very sad to tell you. Grandma died today. Her body stopped working, and she cannot come back. We are going to miss her very much.”
Then pause. The child may cry, ask a practical question, change the subject or want to play. None of those reactions proves they did not understand or care.
Answer the question they actually ask
You do not have to explain everything at once. If they ask what happens at the funeral, answer that. If they ask who will pick them up from school now, answer that. Reassurance about ordinary routines can matter as much as explanation.
Do not make the child responsible for your feelings
It is okay for a child to see an adult cry. It is also useful to make clear that adults are responsible for finding support and the child does not have to fix the grief.
If the death was traumatic
Keep graphic details out of the first explanation unless there is a compelling reason. If a child witnessed the death, is intensely distressed, or the circumstances are traumatic, seek age-appropriate professional guidance.