Goodbye: A First Conversation About Grief

Based on research indicating that race, gender, death, and other important topics should be discussed from toddlerhood onward, this read-aloud board book series offers adults the opportunity to begin important conversations with young children in an informed, safe, and supported way.

A picture book edition of the board book about grief, Goodbye: A First Conversation About Grief offers adults the opportunity to start important conversations with young children in a secure and nurturing environment.

Developed by experts in early childhood education and activism against injustice, this topic-driven picture book employs clear, concrete language and compelling imagery to introduce the concept of grief. The book aims to normalise the topic of death by discussing what it means and how it feels to experience loss. It focuses on several questions that frequently arise about grief and provides honest, simple ways to answer them.

While young children are keen observers and inquisitive about their surroundings, adults often delay these conversations because it's challenging to know where to begin. Research shows that discussing tough issues from the age of two not only helps children understand what they see but also increases self-awareness, self-esteem, and enables them to recognise and confront injustices like discrimination and prejudice.

These books offer a supportive approach that takes into account both the child and the adult. Stunning art accompanies the simple and interactive text, and the backmatter provides additional resources and ideas for extending this important discussion.