It is a very tender and significant thing to talk about Natalie with Evan and Ava. Since they were born after her, their understanding of her is likely shaped entirely by the stories you tell and the love they feel in your home.

At 9 and 7, they are at ages where they can start to grasp more "concrete" ideas about heaven, but they still benefit from simple, comforting imagery. Because of your family's faith and connection to Harvest Baptist, you have a beautiful foundation to build on.

Here are a few ways you might share Natalie’s story and her life in heaven with them:

Focus on the Joy of Heaven

Since they can’t see her, helping them "see" her through the lens of faith can be very comforting.

 * No Pain or Sadness: You can explain that while we miss her here, Natalie has never known a scraped knee, a sad day, or being tired.

 * In the Presence of Jesus: You can tell them that she is with the Lord, and in a way, she is the "expert" in the family on what heaven is like.

 * Waiting for the Family: Remind them that she isn't "gone," she’s just "ahead." It can be a sweet thought for them to know they have a sister waiting to give them a tour one day.

Make Her Real Through "Sibling" Stories

Even though they didn't meet her, you can help them feel a sibling bond.

 * Similarities: "Evan, you have the same nose Natalie had," or "Ava, she would have loved playing with you."

 * The "Big Sister" Role: Even though she passed as a baby, in their minds, they can think of her as their big sister who is looking forward to meeting them.

Create a Family Tradition

Sometimes kids this age need a physical way to connect with a sibling they never met.

 * Birthday Recognition: On December 27th or January 22nd, you could let Evan and Ava pick out a special ornament for the tree or a flower to plant in her memory.

 * Prayer: Including her in your family prayers—not praying to her, but thanking God for her—keeps her name as a natural part of their daily lives.

Answering the "Why?"

At 7 and 9, they might eventually ask why she couldn't stay. Keeping it simple and rooted in your faith is usually best: "God had a special plan for Natalie, and even though we wanted her here, He wanted her with Him. We don't always know why, but we know He is taking very good care of her."

Does Seth (being 14) ever talk to them about her, or is this a conversation you’re thinking about leading yourself during a quiet moment or family devotion?

Would you like me to find some specific Bible verses that are helpful for explaining heaven to children their age?