Often times euphemisms replace the words DEAD and DIED, with passed away, Grandpa is sleeping, or We lost Grandma. These softened explanations can cause fears in a young child that they too may get lost or go down for a nap and never wake up. They notice the change of the seasons as plants and trees appear to wither and die. They may have experienced the death of a pet. It is hard not to notice the difference between a live goldfish and one floating motionless on the top of the fish bowl.
Death causes changes in a living thing.
Very young children may not be able to fully comprehend the complexities, but they are aware that death looks and feels different. If possible, begin a dialogue with your child about how all living things on this earth will die someday. Death is a reality, we can't hide it from our children. It is the circle of life. If the situation arises where a plant, pet or animal dies, allow the child to investigate it, see it, touch it, even smell it.