How to Discuss Grandmother's Passing with 8 and 2 Year Olds

I am so sorry you are going through so much right now. Wow, I think the best bet is just to tell them that soon grandma will go to live with God in Heaven and one day you will all be together again. It sounds like you have a sensitive son with a tender heart. It may hurt him, but that is such pure love that he has, I think I would just comfort him and remind him that God is taking really good care of grandma and grandpa and they are really happy with him, they aren't sick etc. If he continues to ask questions about it, just pray and answer whatever the Lord gives you to say, He knows how to comfort better than anyone. Take care of yourself, I will pray for you guys!

In Houston there is Bo's Place, a bereavement center for kids and families. Call them and have them send a packet of tips. It may be appropriate for you and the kids to attend their group sessions. Also, I have some materials for young people that have experienced loss I can send you. They were created by the Interfaith Caring group. Call me or reply with your address. ###-###-####.

Hi C.,
I am so sorry that you are going through this. I cannot imagine how heartbroken you must be.
My suggestion is to try books. I've heard that Maria Shriver's book "What's Heaven?" is a great children's book on dealing with the passing of a loved one. I'm not sure what your spiritual beliefs are, or if you go to church or temple, but maybe speaking to your priest, pastor, or rabbi could help give you some guidance on addressing this with your children. Maybe he or she could even speak with your older child.
I wish there were an easier way to deal with this. To love is one of life's greatest gifts, and your love for your mother, and her love for you will never pass, it will always be with you and your children. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family.
Sincerely,
A. W

I am sorry to hear about this. Best wishes for your mom and your family. We just lost a Grandmother (my kids great grandma). It is a very difficult time for everyone because it often involves a lot of time at the hospital and is especially tough on the care givers and their family. I can only offer you what we did with our kids (ages 10 & 12). We believe that death is a natural part of life and decided no to conceal it from them. They went on a regular basis to visit their great grandma in the hospital. We also told them the truth about her condition as her health declined. We (me and their dad) both felt it was important to let them have their relationship with her to the end so that they will grow up knowing that they also helped her during her last days. We explained to them about Heaven and about how she is passing at an old age. I did not want them worrying about me and their dad passing at an early age. They also know that they can talk to her at anytime through prayer. I know your kids are younger. I hope this helps you.

This may not help much, but I liked the book: "What is Heaven?" by Maria Schreiver. It answers a wide range of questions and was comforting to my 7 year old (also sensitive) when my father passed away last year. Hope this helps.