The best time to consider what might happen when a grandparent dies is well before it happens. While talking about death can be difficult, approaching the topic early and often helps reduce fear and shift focus toward making the most of life. As grandparents, you might initiate these conversations with your adult children, and, if they agree, with your grandchildren, creating a family culture where death is acknowledged as a natural part of life. 

In this guide you will find: 

• The meaning of “anticipatory grief” 
• How children process the idea of death at each developmental stage 
• Conversation starters and discussion questions for grandparents and grandchildren 
• Ways to honor and remember deceased grandparents 
• Why preparing grandchildren for your death is ultimately an act of love 

Photograph by BlueCutler, Getty Images Signature