Right after it happens
What do I tell the kids?
Short answer
Tell them the truth in plain words appropriate to their age. "Grandma died" is better than "passed away" or "went to sleep" — those phrases confuse young children. You do not have to explain everything today. One clear sentence is enough for…
What this usually means
Tell them the truth in plain words appropriate to their age. "Grandma died" is better than "passed away" or "went to sleep" — those phrases confuse young children. You do not have to explain everything today. One clear sentence is enough for now.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.