Explaining a sudden death can be difficult, and your child may have questions. If it one of their first experiences with death, they may have troubles understanding what has happened. If you are looking to explore the topic – there are many excellent children’s books that help to open the door for conversation.
Gentle Willow
Amanda and Little Tree discover that their friend Gentle Willow isn’t feeling well. Amanda summons the Tree Wizards, who visit Gentle Willow and determine that they can’t fix her. Amanda is angry at first, but eventually she listens to the Tree Wizards as they explain that death is a transformation and journey into the unknown. They also counsel Amanda that the medicine she can give Gentle Willow is love. In a final act of love, Amanda comforts Gentle Willow, who is afraid, with a story about the caterpillar who transforms into a butterfly. A new “Note to Parents” addresses how to cope with death and dying
Saying Goodbye to Lulu
A young girl and her lovable dog, Lulu, are the best of friends. They play games together, explore their neighborhood, and even cuddle up to read bedtime stories each night. Lulu is the best dog a girl could ever hope for, but when she grows older and gradually becomes weak, the little girl must face the sad possibility of losing her dear friend, and inevitably, cope with the death of her canine companion. Though she is deeply saddened by Lulu’s passing and misses her very much, over time the little girl discovers that the sweet memory of her beloved Lulu will live on forever… in her heart.
I Miss You: A First Look at Death
When a close friend or family member dies, it can be difficult for children to express their feelings. This book helps boys and girls understand that death is a natural complement to life, and that grief and a sense of loss are normal feelings for them to have following a loved one’s death. Titles in this sensitively presented series explore the dynamics of various relationships experienced by children of preschool through early school age. Kids are encouraged to understand personal feelings and social problems as a first step in dealing with them. Written by psychotherapist and counselor Pat Thomas, these books promote positive interaction among children, parents, and teachers. The story lines are simple and direct–easily accessible to younger children
When Dinosaurs Die
Unlike many books on death for little ones, this one doesn’t tell a story. Instead, it addresses children’s fears and curiosity head-on, and in a largely secular fashion, by answering some very basic questions: “Why does someone die?” “What does dead mean?” “What comes after death?”
Badger’s Parting Gifts
Dependable, reliable, always ready to lend a helping paw, the venerable Badger knows just about everything. Nearing the end of his life, he helps his companions come to terms with the loss of their dear friend
Fall of Freddie the Leaf
The wonderfully wise and strikingly simple story of a leaf named Freddie has become one of the most popular books of our times. How Freddie and his companion leaves change with the passing seasons, finally falling to the ground with a winters snow, is an inspiring allegory illustrating the delicate balance between life and death. After offering solace for a generation of adults and children alike
The Tenth Good Thing About Barney
My cat Barney died this Friday. I was very sad. My mother said we could have a funeral for him, and I should think of ten good things about Barney so I could tell them… But the small boy who loved Barney can only think of nine. Later, while talking with his father, he discovers the tenth — and begins to understand.
momstown Burlington
