Navigating Grief: 6 Must-Read Books to Help Your Child Heal

Facing the reality of explaining death to my children, aged 6 and 3, was a heart-wrenching experience I never expected to undertake. The sorrow hit like a tidal wave when I received that painful phone call—my father, their beloved grandfather, had passed away without warning. There were no signs, no lingering illness to prepare us for this cruel twist of fate. I was left grappling with my own feelings of disbelief, sorrow, and a life forever altered while needing to be a pillar of strength for my little girls.

Navigating this emotional landscape felt overwhelming. Frequently, grieving individuals and professionals alike have traversed similar conversations about loss with children. I learned that using direct language, like saying “died” instead of avoiding the term or euphemistically suggesting “gone to sleep,” is crucial for clarity. Phrases that aim to comfort can sometimes cause more fear than relief, such as suggesting that the loved one is “watching from above.” While my youngest might still be trying to make sense of the world around her, my 6-year-old was beginning to grasp the permanence of loss and its impact on our lives.

Sitting on the couch, wrapped around my daughters, I felt an aching void and a longing for support. In that moment of need, I found myself wishing for a children’s book about grief—something to gently guide them through their emotions and help them process the uncertainty they felt. That’s why I’ve curated this list of books that I wish I’d had at my fingertips during those initial days of sorrow. Each one offers comfort, understanding, and valuable lessons that I too am learning as I navigate my own grief.

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerfeld is a story that perfectly exemplifies the power of listening. When something sad happens, Taylor feels lost and confused. Although various animals come rushing in with their well-meaning but misguided advice, it’s the quiet arrival of the rabbit that really matters. The rabbit simply listens, validating Taylor’s feelings. This gentle tale reminds us that sometimes the best way to support someone in grief is not by offering solutions but by just being there and listening.

I Miss You Most by Jennifer N. McLin is a touching tribute to the beautiful bond between a granddaughter and her dearly departed grandpa. As she reflects on the joy he brought to her life, she also reassures herself that his love will always remain in her heart, even in his absence. This book serves as a gentle starting point for crucial discussions about grief, emphasizing the enduring impact our loved ones have on our lives, which can help normalize what can sometimes feel like an isolating experience.

The book Goodbye: A First Conversation About Grief is another gem that addresses the complexity of loss in an accessible way for young minds. Many adults are understandably hesitant to talk about such difficult subjects, often out of fear of confusing or upsetting a child. Yet, research suggests that introducing these topics early helps children process their feelings and improve their emotional literacy. This book openly discusses what it means to experience loss, allowing little ones to feel that confusion and sadness aloud, rather than swallowing it down.

Just What to Do by Jennifer N. McKinley tackles the important lesson of supporting others in their moments of sadness. The book asks readers to consider how one can best lift someone’s spirits. It emphasizes the idea that everyone grieves differently, and that showing support means being attentive to what the grieving person truly needs, rather than simply offering platitudes or solutions. This understanding can empower both children and adults to be more mindful of each other’s feelings.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen presents an age-old message that perfectly parallels the process of grieving. The refrain, “We can’t go over it. We can’t go under it. Oh, no! We’ve got to go through it!” is a poignant reminder that grief isn’t something we can bypass; it’s a journey we must undertake, hand in hand with those we love. This book not only entertains but offers hope, encouraging children to rely on one another as a family as they face their challenges.

Lastly, You’ll Find Me by Jena A. McMillan gently transitions readers from the experience of loss to the act of remembrance. This book encourages reflection on cherished memories, reminding us that while our loved ones may no longer be physically present, their essence lingers through the love and experiences we shared. It offers comforting ways for children to keep the memory of lost loved ones alive, fostering a sense of connection even in their absence.

These books are not just tools for my children; they also help me as a parent in processing my own grief. They reflect our reality in ways that resonate deeply, helping us find meaning in our heartache. Each story is a step forward, guiding us through the rough waters of loss and leading us to brighter shores where healing lives.