Resources on Dementia for Children

Grandpa’s Magic Memory Box – A Children’s Book About Dementia by G.M. Grace is a heartwarming and compassionate story that introduces young readers to the complex topic of dementia through the eyes of its main character, Alex.

Meet Alex, a curious and loving child who adores spending weekends with Grandpa Jack. Together, they share precious moments filled with captivating stories from “the olden days.” But one day, something starts to change. Grandpa Jack begins forgetting little things like where he put his glasses or the name of Alex’s favorite toy.

As Alex becomes increasingly concerned, the story gently approaches the subject of dementia. Alex’s parents provide a clear and comforting explanation, describing dementia as a condition where memories, like books in a library, can get mixed up or misplaced. They emphasize that this condition doesn’t diminish Grandpa’s love for Alex, even when he forgets names or stories.

In a beautiful demonstration of empathy and creativity, Alex decides to create a “Magic Dementia Memory Box” for Grandpa Jack. This box becomes a repository for cherished photographs, mementos, and short stories of their time together. It serves as a source of comfort and connection for both of them, especially during moments of confusion or forgetfulness.

Throughout the book, young readers join Alex on a journey of understanding and compassion, navigating a range of emotions from sadness to frustration. With the support of parents, teachers, and friends, Alex learns that it’s okay to feel these emotions and to talk about them openly.

As the story unfolds, Alex discovers that others in the school community also have relatives facing similar challenges. Together, they build empathy, share coping strategies, and offer each other support.

Grandpa’s Magic Memory Box beautifully illustrates the resilience of love and the enduring nature of memories. Even as Grandpa Jack’s condition evolves, Alex finds new ways to connect and engage with him, creating new traditions and strengthening their bond.

This book is a valuable resource for families, educators, and children, offering a sensitive and age-appropriate exploration of dementia, empathy, and the enduring power of love and memories. It encourages open conversations and fosters understanding, making it an essential addition to any child’s library.

“Unreservedly recommended.” Midwest Book Review A lighthearted picture book about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia told from the perspective of a six-year-old boy, appropriate for children in preschool through early elementary school (ages 3 – 8). Granny can’t remember that Joey likes soccer and rockets and dogs. Granny can’t remember much of anything. But with Granny’s stories of her Three Best Days, Joey knows she loves him just the same. Alzheimer’s disease is more and more common, and many young children experience this sometimes scary and sad family situation. Granny Can’t Remember Me shows a boy’s acceptance and love for his grandmother despite this unfortunate illness.

Are you looking for a picture book to talk about dementia or Alzheimer’s with a child? This Alzheimer’s book for children explains Alzheimer’s dementia in kid-friendly terms. The book presents memory loss in an easy-to-understand narrative.

Boys and girls alike will benefit from this “must have” children’s read. Alzheimer’s has an impact on families around the world. This book allows a family to face this challenge together and make the most of every available moment.

In Granny Needs My Help: A Child’s Look at Dementia and Alzheimer’s the main character Zéh is excited, happy, and challenged as she helps and continues to show her granny expressed love. She gains an understanding of dementia, as she has fun with and is challenged by her granny. Granny Needs My Help is a true gem for families and children of all ages.

Discover the heartwarming relationship between Grandpa and his Little Buddy in this touching book. When Grandpa is diagnosed with a dementia disease, Little Buddy realizes playing soccer together won’t quite be the same. But, while the activities that Grandpa can do are changing, there is still much fun to be had. In fact, spending time with each other is as special as ever!

Using delightful and tender illustrations, dementia is compassionately explored through the innocent eyes of a child to create a greater understanding of the disease. Tips for speaking with your child as well as a useful Q&A are also included to enhance learning.

Written by Registered Social Worker and Dementia Care Expert, Jaclyn Guenette / Edited and Illustrated by Award-winning Author & Illustrator, Kathryn Harrison.

*A portion of profits from this book will be donated to the Alzheimer Society of Canada. The Alzheimer Society is Canada’s leading health charity for people living with Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. Thank you for making a difference.

After his beloved grandpa’s health declines and he receives a diagnosis of dementia, a grandson must navigate the changes in their relationship. Through it all, he learns that Grandpa is still Grandpa, and their bond deepens and sweetens through a shared love of ice cream.

Ice Cream with Grandpa is a loving, tender picture book that gently explores the topics of dementia, aging, and loss. Written from a child’s point of view, it chronicles the changes in their relationship as his grandpa moves to assisted living, then memory care, and eventually hospice.

Based on the author’s own experience with her father and son, the engaging story and beautiful illustrations by Elisabete B. P. de Moraes addresses these challenging topics with a kind, age-appropriate approach that will resonate with young readers—while providing tools to help children maintain meaningful relationships with loved ones with the disease.

Includes a guide for parents on talking to kids about dementia, hospice, death, and grief written by expert on grief and loss, Diane Snyder Cowan, MA, MT-BC, CHPCA.

While the book specifically deals with Alzheimer’s and dementia, its themes are universally applicable to helping children understand the changes in and loss of older relatives and loved ones.