(Posted 447 days ago)

Do's and Don'ts:

What you say depends on the age of the children. But be honest. Younger kids only need to know that Grandpa might die, or that if he survives, there's a good chance he'll be disabled. Older kids might want to know what a stroke is and how it affects the body.

Never equate death with sleep. Doing so can make kids terrified of going to sleep.

Be yourself. If you cry, that's okay. Death is part of life, and children need to be guided through all of life's experiences, both pleasant and unpleasant.

But remain the parent. Comfort your children, but don't make them feel it's their responsibility to comfort you. If they do this, great. But some kids can't. Get your support from other adults.

Say This:

Grandpa had a stroke. This happens to some old people. I hope he lives. But you need to know that he might die. If he lives, he might be disabled. Right now we just don't know. But we'll know more soon, and I'll tell you. For now, you need to know that Grandpa had a stroke. It's serious, and he might die.