How do I explain a grandparent's death to a young child?

use simple, honest words, avoid “they are sleeping”, and share the Hindu idea that the soul lives on and is with God.

Children understand more than we think, and they cope better with gentle truth than with confusing silence. Say clearly that Dādī's body stopped working and she has died, that it is not anyone's fault, and that she cannot come back. Avoid “she is sleeping” or “she went on a trip”, which can create fear of sleep or of goodbyes.

The Hindu view gives children a warm picture: the body is like clothes, but the real Dādī — her ātmā — does not die. She has gone to God, and her love stays with us. Let the child ask questions, cry, or play; children grieve in bursts.

Include them in small ways: putting a flower on the photo, lighting a lamp, drawing a picture for Dādī, cooking her favourite dish on her śrāddha. Whether young children attend the cremation is a family decision; prepare them if they do.

Source: Bhagavad Gītā 2.22; child-grief guidance

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