Book suggestions on explaining death to small children?

Question

My mother (79 yrs old) is terminally ill. I have 2 daughters (4 yrs old and 2 yrs old), and I want to be prepared on what to say to them when their grandmother passes. Any suggestions on good books to read on this subject?

Answer 1

I am so sorry for you. There are several good children's books that talk about death. Lifetimes-Bryan Mellanie, I Miss You-Pat Thomas, I’ll Always Love You-Hans Wihelm are some of my favorites. They are great books that help young children understand about loss and grieving. You can find them on Amazon or your local book store or library.

When she passes, you can tell them that "I have some very sad news. Grandma got very sick and died." Depending on your beliefs, you may want to tell them that "Heaven needed grandma to help them." Empathize with them about their loss. "I know you are feeling very (upset, sad, hurt) about this. Mommy's feels sad too." Give them lots of extra love and support. They will need to grieve.

Answer 2

I don't know how it came that I have this book but it helped out when my grandmother passed away and I had to explain to my daughter (5 years). It's called Dear God, why? It's a series of books but the one I have deals with the passing of loved ones.

Answer 3

If you are religious you could explain to them about going to heaven where there is no hurting. don't expext them to understand at their ages. They may ask about your mom or talk about her as if she is still living for quite a while due to their young ages. If you are in tears after the death you could tell them that you miss your mother and are sad that you can't see her now. Be sure to tell them that they will live for a long time so they won't be afraid of dying themselves. I'm sure there are books out there I just don't know of any.