Seperation / Divorce...How Do I Explain to a 3 Year Old?

Is grandfather moving way far away, or just not living with grandmom? That would make a difference in the explanation. I'm not sure what to say, but maybe just be very simple in your answer - Grandma and grandpa don't live in the same house anymore. It might be enough for her for now, especially if she can still see both of them at their own homes. Hopefully they are on good enough terms to put aside their differences for birthdays, holidays, etc. By being the grownups and continuing to honor their relationship with her, I would hope it would make things a little easier for her to deal with, and more pleasant for them. Good luck!

I would just tell her that her grandparents decided to live in different houses now, but they both still love her and she will get to see both of them. If she asks why I would say that they just need their own space now. She might be satisfied with that explanation. Hopefully your parents will still be civil with each other when around her, it really does make a difference to a young child. They will pick up on attitude and hidden feelings more so than the actual words at this age.

I think at this young age it would just be best to say that grandpa needs to live in his home and grandma has her home. I was divorced when my son was 4 years old and I just gave him that simple answer and then let him be satisfied with that at the time. He is a smart boy and soon figured out he can live with mom and live with dad and still be happy! A lot of times the adjustment that kids need to make depends on the attitudes of the adults. Advise them to be civil around the girl and it will be a lot easier on her.

I'm wondering if there are books about that subject, for kids?

Also, a child this age is not going to truly understand what it means. Even Teenagers don't or the ramifications of it.

Just keep things simple and age-appropriate... and hopefully the Grandparents will not 'change' in their relationship with your daughter... try to keep things as consistent as possible... the loving/caring/thoughtfulness , and her relationship with them.
And, that the Grandparents put on their best behavior in front of her, even if they are in the same room at the same time. No animosity... even if forced, by the adults. And no fighting/insulting each other in front of her either, or talking bad about the other etc.

Maybe, don't explain it all at one time to her... nor in a tragic way or forlorn way. Try to somehow make it sound "positive" even though I know its not..... kids feel our 'vibes.'

all the best,
Susan