Helping Children Understand Loss: A Guide to Age-Appropriate Books

17 September 2024

Discussing loss with children is never easy, but using the right resources can help open up important conversations. We've compiled a list of age-appropriate books that many families have found helpful in explaining grief and loss to children. Whether you're guiding a preschooler or a teenager through the grieving process, these books offer gentle, supportive ways to
approach the topic.

Books for Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

At this age, children are still developing their understanding of the world and may have difficulty grasping the concept of loss. These books offer simple yet comforting ways to explain grief to young children:

• The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
  A touching story that explains the invisible connection between people, even after they are gone.
• The Goodbye Book by Todd Parr
  With bright, bold illustrations, this book reassures children that it's okay to feel sad, and that loss is a part of life.
• The Memory Box: A Book About Grief by Joanna Rowland
  A tender narrative that helps children create memories to keep a loved one's legacy alive.
• I Miss You: A First Look at Death by Pat Thomas
  A gentle introduction to death and loss for preschoolers, encouraging understanding and healing.

Books for Early Elementary (Ages 6-8)

Children in this age range are beginning to ask more detailed questions and may seek a clearer understanding of loss. The following books provide emotional support and thoughtful explanations:

• The Heart and the Bottle by Oliver Jeffers
  This beautifully illustrated story addresses the emotional complexity of loss and the desire to protect oneself from grief.
• Ida, Always by Caron Levis
  A moving story about friendship, love, and the lasting impact of memories after loss.
• The Scar by Charlotte Moundlic
  A heart-wrenching story about a young boy coming to terms with the death of his mother.
• Always Remember by Cece Meng
  A poetic and gentle story about how loved ones live on in our hearts and memories.

Books for Older Elementary (Ages 9-12)

At this stage, children may begin to internalize their feelings more deeply.
These books explore grief in greater depth, encouraging reflection and empathy:

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  A timeless classic that deals with friendship and loss in a way that resonates with readers of all ages.
• The Boy Who Sailed Ocean in an Armchair by Lara Williamson
  This uplifting tale follows a boy’s journey through grief and self-discovery.
• The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart
  A heartwarming story about a girl on a cross-country trip to heal after her mother’s death.
• The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin
  A moving exploration of grief, friendship, and the search for answers after a tragic event.

Books for Teens (Ages 13+)

Teens often experience grief in complex ways, making it crucial to offer stories that reflect the emotional challenges they face. These books delve into loss, love, and healing with the nuance that resonates with young adults:

• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
  A story about love and life’s fragility, told through the lens of two teenagers facing terminal illness.
• If I Stay by Gayle Forman
  A powerful narrative about choice and survival, as a young girl decides whether to live or let go after a tragic accident.
• Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume
  A poignant story about a teenager coping with the sudden loss of her father and how she rebuilds her life.
• The Astonishing Color of After by Emily X.R. Pan
  A beautifully written story that intertwines grief, mental health, and magical realism.

Books for Specific Situations

Sometimes, a child's grief may be tied to a specific type of loss. Here are some helpful books tailored to these unique situations:

• Loss of a Pet: The Tenth Good Thing About Barney by Judith Viorst
  A heartfelt story about the death of a beloved pet, focusing on the importance of memories.
• Loss of a Grandparent: Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs by Tomie dePaola
  This classic story lovingly illustrates the bond between a child and their grandparents, offering a comforting way to discuss loss.
• Loss of a Sibling: Perfectly Norman by Tom Percival
  A touching tale that addresses feelings of difference and loss, making it especially relevant for children who have lost a sibling.
• Anticipatory Grief: The Fall of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia
  A story about the natural cycle of life and death, offering comfort to those experiencing anticipatory grief.

Tips for Using These Books with Children

When introducing books about loss to children, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Read the book first to ensure you're comfortable with the content and the way it addresses loss.
• Choose a quiet, comfortable setting for reading together to allow for a relaxed and supportive environment.
• Encourage questions and open discussion as children may have many thoughts and emotions they want to express.
• Show your own emotions. It’s okay to cry or express sadness, as this can help children understand that their feelings are normal.
• Revisit the books as needed. Some children may want to read the same book multiple times as they process their grief.

Supporting Your Child Through Loss

While these books can serve as valuable tools to help children navigate grief, the most important support comes from your presence, love, and understanding. Every child processes loss differently, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Be patient and offer reassurance as they go through this challenging journey.

If you need further guidance or have questions about discussing loss with children, please feel free to reach out. We are here to support you and your family during this difficult time.

Explore Our Additional Resources

At Funeral Prints, we understand that creating tangible keepsakes can also provide comfort during this time. If you're interested in custom photo blankets or other personalized items to help children remember their loved ones, we are here to help guide you through the options.

Feel free to contact us at 1-800-774-4313 for further assistance.