“What will Christmas be like for Grandma in Heaven?”
This is a question many children ask, and parents struggle to answer after the loss of a grandparent (or even a parent).
Here is the picture book I am using with my 4-year-old to talk about Christmas without her Papa:
This beautiful picture book opens with a boy asking his grandfather what Christmas will be like for his grandma. Will she miss all the family traditions now that she won’t be there?
As a grandfather relays how Christmas will be celebrated in Heaven, the family finds comfort in the theological virtue of hope — praying that grandma will be celebrating Jesus’ Birthday in Heaven with the Saints and angels.
Here is what one Catholic grandmother told us: “This is Grandpa’s 1st Christmas in Heaven. I will be traveling to be with my Grandchildren this Christmas. The Grandchildren need to hear about the Great love of Our Father who ‘sets a banquet for us.’ This year i will be reading this to them! Thank you!”
This stunningly illustrated book gives children an unforgettable vision of Heaven while introducing them to how each saint will assist in the celebrations! It also includes a helpful two-page glossary with short descriptions of each saint depicted.
Another picture book that we have used for several years after losing several babies:
If you are struggling to explain to your older children why their sibling is gone, this picture book is a gentle way to help them through grief.
“I read this book and broke down in tears. I had an early miscarriage, and this was such a beautiful way to envision that loss,” said Kelly, a mother of a miscarried baby.
After reading this book, another mother said, “After I stopped crying, I thought of friends and relatives who would do well with this book. Jellybean will speak to those who have miscarried at any stage and those who have lost full-term babies, infants, and even young children. We need help explaining and remembering God’s hand in the matter.”
Don’t forget to order your Advent picture book:
Joan, Joe, Emmanuel, and Gianna are surprised when their parents suddenly begin bringing things into their home at the beginning of December. Evergreen branches, candles, and new foods keep appearing throughout the house. They are quickly told that this is part of “Advent” and that the family is preparing for the Christmas season.
Join the kids as their family celebrates Advent as a time of prayerful waiting and expectation, full of fun traditions and treats!
is the Brand Manager for Holy Heroes after handling many other roles over the years. Make sure you sign up for our emails to receive more of Clara’s writing!
