Losing something dear is painful at any age, but it can be especially overwhelming for a child. I vividly remember the day my three-year-old son accidentally left his beloved stuffed animal, Mr. Bunny, at the park on a cloudy afternoon. With his worn, sandy-colored fur, Mr. Bunny blended perfectly into the surroundings. Amidst the rush of gathering our things, we forgot him. It wasn’t until we arrived home that the realization hit us. The tears flowed! His heart was shattered. I could have quickly comforted him with promises of a new bunny or a treat, but instead, his sorrow transported me back to my own childhood.
At age 10, I lost my cherished toy, Fluffy, on a train. Fluffy wasn’t just any toy; he was my constant companion, and I believed he had feelings, too. I can still recall the day he “stole” my snack—crumbs were all over his plush face. Losing Fluffy was a grief like no other. Although I had experienced many goodbyes in my young life, none compared to parting with him. I worried endlessly about his fate. Was he safe? Would someone love him as I did?
This connection to my own pain allowed me to support my son in that moment. It created a nurturing environment where he could express his feelings freely. I found the patience to help him search for Mr. Bunny, and after a frantic return to the park, we found him safe and sound.
This experience inspired me to write a children’s book on the theme of loss. While it may be difficult to discuss, children encounter loss, too. When we engage with them empathetically, it aids in their healing process. Having moved frequently as a child, I understood the weight of losing homes, friends, and beloved toys like Fluffy. Consequently, my first book touches upon themes of moving and loss.
In my debut picture book, A Home Named Charlie, the story unfolds from the viewpoint of a house. When the family he loves relocates, Charlie feels abandoned and closes himself off. However, he meets a young girl who is grappling with her own loss, and her openness allows her to sense Charlie’s sadness. My aim with this book is to prompt discussions about how we handle loss. Do we express our feelings openly, like the Little Girl, or keep them bottled up, similar to Charlie? How do we cope with these difficult emotions?
Reading together is a bonding experience, fostering connection. I hope my book encourages both children and adults to embrace empathy during moments of loss. Whether it’s a Mr. Bunny, a Fluffy, or a Charlie, love always leads us home.
Emma Grace Taylor moved frequently during her childhood, living in 10 homes across 5 states by the time she was 12. While each move meant letting go, she clung to her creative spirit, writing poetry and stories from a young age. Now residing in San Francisco with her partner, son, and cat, she continues to inspire young writers. Discover more about Emma and her works on her website.
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In summary, discussing loss with children can be daunting, but it is essential. By sharing our own experiences and creating a space for open communication, we can help them navigate their feelings. Stories can be powerful tools in this journey, fostering empathy and understanding.
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