Class Pet Died

[Unregistered]

Our class frog of two years has died today I am so heartbroken, he was so fun and all the kids loved him. I have known he was sick for a few weeks, and most of the children knew as well. We talked about different things I was trying to make him feel better. The past few days I knew there was nothing I could do and it was imminent. I had covered his tank because I did not want anyone to find him dead before I did. It is still covered so there won't be any indication that he is gone.
Anyway, how have you all handled the death of pets in the past? How do you approach it with children and parents? Do you speak with parents first, or let them know after what was discussed?

[mamamanda]

I would definitely send home a short note to parents. I would discuss it as a group, but keep it short and simple. When our cat died we told the kids that she was very sick so she got to go to Heaven where she could be all better. We just left it at that They were sad and asked about her often for a while, but I kept my answer consistent and they all did fine.

[mamamanda]

Also, I'm sorry for your loss. I know its not just the kids that get attached.:hug:

[littletots]

Awww man. Sorry to hear about froggy. I have an American toad at home & he's a character. I would let dcp know. You could add kid book about death in your weekly planner and make teachable moment. I would wait a month then maybe vote on next class pet.

[Ariana]

I never would have thought a frog to be that much fun so that is great! It is so wonderful that you have that happy memory with the kids

There are a ton of books at the library that talk about the death of a pet so maybe that might help. I would send a note home to parents or write a quick email just in case they get questions at home about it.

Sorry for the loss