Picture Advice? **DS Mentioned**

lmielocl1

My DS, Aaron, is not quite 2 and is in daycare.  We have been asked to bring in pictures of our family.  I was thinking about our angel's sunset picture. With his younger brother, Ethan, being in heaven and my DS not really understanding, I am wondering if it would be too much to send the sunset picture in.  The teacher is new so she does not know of our loss.  I want Aaron to know his little brother and we talk about Ethan's blanket, Ethan's tree and Ethan's sunset picture. We are taking it slow though.  What do you think?  Should I email the teacher to see what her thoughts are? As much as I want to honor my precious Ethan, I want to respect the teacher & the other children.  I thought I would ask your opinions.

Thank you! 

pottermommy

Katleyn's pre school class did family pics when Katelyn wad 4.5 (a little older I know) we sent one of Kamryn in.  She is part of her family.  It is important that Katelyn know that even if sh eis in heaven Kamryn is still her sister. 

You could always ask the teacher and see what she says. 

Bayberry12

While I haven't experienced anything like this, as I don't have any other children, I often wonder how I will handle situations like this in the future.  I love the idea of still honoring Ethan.  He is, and will always be a part of your family.  I think the sunset picture sounds like a nice way to do it.  But, maybe email the teacher and explain it to her first, just to give her a heads up, so she is not shocked and understand where you are coming from.  I'm sure she will understand. 

careyalis

My students had a "Me Bag" assignment where they have to bring in stuff that tells about them, including a family picture.  I always model the assignment by sharing my me bag first, and I was really torn about it this year.  I showed my students a picture of Jeff, Avery, and I and said "This is my family.  This is my husband Jeff, this is me, and this is our daughter Avery.  Most of you know that Avery was sick when she was born and was not able to live very long, but she is still and important part of our family."

I was careful to choose a picture of her while she was alive that just showed her little face to avoid any awkward questions about her body being different.  I say go for it.  I think it is important to validate and acknowledge your child's life anytime that it is possible.  I think choosing the sunset picture is being mindful of the children while still acknowledging your child, and I think it would be great for your son to share.  I would definitely email the teacher so she can help with an explanation.

ILoveRedVino

careyalis:

My students had a "Me Bag" assignment where they have to bring in stuff that tells about them, including a family picture.  I always model the assignment by sharing my me bag first, and I was really torn about it this year.  I showed my students a picture of Jeff, Avery, and I and said "This is my family.  This is my husband Jeff, this is me, and this is our daughter Avery.  Most of you know that Avery was sick when she was born and was not able to live very long, but she is still and important part of our family."

I think this is a beautiful and perfect way to explain it.  Even to adults. 

lmielocl1

Thank you so much for your thoughts & suggestions. I think I am going to email the teacher this weekend!