How to use it
Choose writing and drawing, mostly drawing, or a letter to the pet. You can type the pet’s name into the title.
Sit with your child while they fill it in, and write down their words if that’s easier.
Let them say as much or as little as they want. There are no wrong answers.
Keep the page in a frame or a memory box, or next to a photo of your pet.
Questions parents ask
How do I tell my child our pet died?
Use plain, gentle words, like “Biscuit died. Her body stopped working, and she can’t come back.” Phrases like “went away” or “put to sleep” can be confusing for young children, who may take them literally.
Is it okay for my child to see me sad?
Yes. Seeing you miss your pet shows that sadness is part of loving someone. You can say, “I’m sad because I miss her too.”
What if my child doesn’t want to do the page?
That’s okay. Some children want to draw right away, some later, and some not at all. Leave it out, and let them come back to it.
Why does my child keep asking the same questions?
Young children often ask again and again while they make sense of it. Answer simply each time. If your child’s sadness stays heavy for a long time, your pediatrician can help.
Is my child’s name saved anywhere?
No. A name you type stays in your browser so it can print on the sheet. It is never sent to us.
Is it really free?
Yes. One email unlocks this and every other tool in the library, and you can print as many as you like. Your email also brings one short story each Tuesday, and you can leave anytime.
This is a simple visual support for everyday routines, not a therapy or a treatment. If your child works with a teacher or therapist, they can tell you how it fits with what they already do. Picture symbols: Mulberry Symbols, CC BY-SA 4.0.
