Grandparents are an irreplaceable part of a child’s life. We grow up with them in our lives and they give us a special kind of love that only a grandparent can give. It is a patient and understanding kind of love.

They pass down their legacies and memories to us in a way that we will never forget. And when they’re gone, we miss them terribly. Most of us would give about anything to feel their tender touch and hear their voice one more time.

For many people, losing a grandparent is the first real loss that we ever experience. They are around when we are born and we get to see them age and eventually pass as we get older. It’s not an easy thing to witness and be a part of.

It’s not uncommon to see grandparents take an active role in raising their grandchildren. Although the grandchildren might not live with them, some do. And even if they don’t they are often very active in the lives of their grandchildren.

Some of us are lucky enough to have our grandparents around well into our adulthood, but some children lose their grandparents at an early age. If that happens, it is important to explain to a child what is happening as they may struggle to understand.

Adults should explain things clearly and tell the truth without using metaphors. Some adults make the mistake of saying things like “grandpa is a star in the sky now”, but psychologists say that isn’t a good idea.

You should also never tell a child that their grandparent has left, because then they will want to know when they are returning. We should be brief, but honest about what has happened.

Psychologists also say it isn’t a bad thing to show our feelings to a child. It is okay to be sad and cry. They need to know that it is okay for them to do the same thing. Also be certain to answer any of the child’s questions as clearly and honestly as possible.

Be sure that children know that although they may not be able to see their grandparents they are still with us in our hearts and memories. We can see them in pictures and remember them when we do activities that we used to enjoy doing with them.

Be sure to share this with your family and friends. It’s never easy to lose a grandparent, but these tips can help us when the time comes.