Few books about loss have been written for toddlers. Often parents seek guidance on how best to support their young child through the death of a grandparent. It is most helpful to start a conversation by reading an age-appropriate story with minimal text for this age group.

In “Something Very Sad Happened: A Toddler’s Guide to Understanding Death,” which is written by Dr. Bonnie Zucker, a licensed psychologist, and illustrated by Kim Fleming, Dr. Zucker lets readers know it is normal to feel sad and angry, and it’s OK to cry. This book relies heavily on beautiful illustrations. These illustrations expertly express basic, core feelings associated with loss that 2–3-year-olds can understand.

The short story makes key points with several examples to explain death, grief associated with the loss, remembering, and that love is everlasting. Included at the back of the book are tips for parents and caregivers to support young children through loss.

This book works with the short attention span of a toddler and can be read through in a few minutes. The toddler can revisit the book as looking at the illustrations can reinforce the message without need of words. This book does not introduce the concept of faith or religion, enabling parents to be the decision-makers on how they wish to approach this topic with their little ones.

Pathways of Hope^SM Grief Counseling Centers
Ohio’s Hospice offers grief and bereavement support through our Pathways of Hope^SM Grief Counseling Centers, which provide a variety of services to the communities we serve. Support and education are provided by a team of counselors and social workers, all with significant experience and expertise in assisting grieving children, adolescents and adults.