Fuzz Fox and the Missing Piece

✦ Before you read

Prepare the space,
not a correct response.

• Read the book first and consider what the child already knows about the death or change.
• This story includes Grandpa dying. Explain a real death separately with a trusted adult; do not use the book to announce it.
• Use clear words such as ‘died’ and ‘death’. Avoid describing death as sleep, which can create confusion or fear.
• Make answering optional. A child may want to listen, draw, leave the room, sit close or return another day.
• If the loss is recent, coordinate with the child’s parent, carer or pastoral team where appropriate.

✿ Optional prompts

If talking feels useful

Choose one question and give it time. Your child can point, draw, use their usual communication method, talk about Fuzz or pass. There is no need to make it personal.

1. 1

   What helped Fuzz when he did not want to talk?

2. 2

   Which memory of Grandpa seemed warm or important to Fuzz?

3. 3

   Why might two friends miss somebody in different ways?

4. 4

   What could a trusted grown-up do if words feel hard?

5. 5

   Is there a memory, object, drawing or story you would like to keep — or would you rather pass?