So yesterday, there was a spider in my bedroom. I grabbed a paper towel and took care of business, as I have done many times before. (Unless Josh is around. Then I make him do the dirty work.) Anyway, Claire was freaked out at the mere mention of a spider, but I assured her that I killed it. Then, she asked to see the spider. I explained to her that I had killed it, it was dead and gone. She looked confused, pondered this for a moment, and then asked, "Is he with his Mommy and Daddy? Is the spider with his Mommy and Daddy and baby brother?"
Ummmmmm... yes? Yes. Let's go with that, instead of "Well, honey. Mommy killed him. Crushed him. He's dead. He's not alive anymore. Did you know living things like animals and people can die? They can just stop being alive. Especially if Mommy crushes them into an unrecognizable assembly of body parts and fluid. Sweet dreams tonight!"
She might be a little more obedient for a few days, but I don't know if that would make up for the 2am night terrors for the next year.
Okay, so I know that's probably not the recommended "death talk" for preschoolers, but I'm starting to think I should find out what is appropriate. I think it's something that comes up for a lot of kids in the 3-5 year old range and I want to be prepared to explain the circle of life without completely freaking her out. Maybe we could just watch "The Lion King" and listen to that Elton John song? ;-)
Google, here I come.
