The first death most children experience is the loss of a pet or grandparent. They need to know that you, as a caring adult, are available to explain what has happened and reasure them that they are safe. Explaining death to children is not easy, but important teaching moment to share values and beliefs. You will find additonal information at http://www.amazon.com/Judy-H.-Wright/e/B002WCPXCY/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1 to assist you in explaining death of a pet.