As a mom of two, I have experienced some loss throughout my life. I have lost pets and grandparents, but the most significant loss I faced was when I lost my father in 2020.
My children were little. At the time, they didn’t understand about grief and loss, but as they have grown, they have asked more questions. Books have been a great talking point in explaining to them and answering many questions that they have.
Everyone goes through grief and loss at some point in his or her life, and, sometimes, it’s just hard to explain to your children what is happening. We have compiled a list for you, that we hope will help guide you through any questions your children might have.
>> RELATED READ :: In Memory of My Grandparents <<
For Toddlers, Ages 3 – 5
1. Goodbye: A First Conversation About Grief :: by Megan Madison :: A book to help guide parents through the first conversations about grief and loss.
2. The Goodbye Book :: by Todd Parr :: This book addresses emotions when dealing with loss, and lets kids know that someone will always be there to support them.
3. The Memory Box :: by Joanna Rowland :: Told from the perspective of a child as she creates a memory box to help remember her loved one.
4. Remembering Sundays with Grandpa :: by Lauren H Kerstein :: As a mom and son share memories of their loved one, they work through their grief.
>> RELATED READ :: 5 Caring Ways to Support a Friend Who Had a Miscarriage <<
For Preschoolers, Ages 5 and Up
5. I Miss You: A First Look at Death :: by Pat Thomas :: A book that helps promote discussion, and guides families through conversations about loss and healing. There is also one called I Miss My Pet by the same author that guides you through the loss of a pet.
6. The Invisible String :: by Patrice Karst :: A sweet look at how love connects us all, even when someone is no longer with us.
7. The Rabbit Listened :: by Cori Dorrefeld :: A moving picture book that helps teach about having empathy and kindness in the face of loss.
8. Remembering Blue Fish :: by Becky Friedman :: Daniel Tiger learns how to process his feelings after the loss of his fish.
9. Something Very Sad Happened :: by Bonnie Zucker :: A book for the younger ones to help them understand death, normalize sadness, and reassure them.
10. When Dinosaurs Die :: by Laurie Krasny Brown :: This book provides a comforting aid to help young kids and families through the difficult time of dealing with grief and loss.
More Grief Resources for Collin County Kids
We have many articles on our sister sites. Here are a few that can be helpful for you and your family:
>> FIND A LOCAL EVENT :: Collin County Moms Community Calendar <<
There are also local places that will help and provide support whenever you may need it. These include:
There are also lots of counseling options available in the area. Many can be recommended by your doctor or your child’s pediatrician.
