A heartbroken mother recently faced one of the most difficult conversations of her life when her young son asked about the death of Raila Odinga, a figure he had admired deeply. How do you explain loss to someone who cannot yet grasp the permanence of death?
Olivia Dayo shared her struggle in trying to help her son understand the situation. Every attempt to explain that Raila had passed away only seemed to deepen his sorrow.
The boy’s repeated questions reflected both confusion and disbelief, showing how the impact of loss can be profoundly personal and even unsettling for children. You can see more about her experience here: link.
The story resonated with many Kenyans who shared their own experiences of explaining death to children. It highlights the challenge parents face when trying to provide comfort while also being honest.
For children, the loss of a public figure like Raila can feel almost unreal, making the process of grieving more complex. More insights on her reflections are available here: link.
This moment offers a reminder that grief does not always follow age or expectations. Children often need guidance, patience, and reassurance as they navigate emotions they may not fully understand.
Families may find themselves searching for ways to honor someone’s life while also helping the youngest members of the household process their feelings.
Ultimately, the story shows that loss is a shared experience, affecting everyone in different ways. Even a nation’s heroes can leave a gap felt most keenly at home, in quiet moments, and in the eyes of children who admired them from afar. It also invites reflection on how we support the young through times of sorrow and confusion.
