Dadaji's Paintbrush: questions to ask and activities to try
After Dadaji dies, his grandson can't bear to use his paintbrush. Dadaji's Paintbrush is a beautiful story about grief, memories and finding a way forward.
What age is it for? Dadaji's Paintbrush is best for ages 4–8. Good for: Losing a grandparent, and finding a way forward.
Dadaji's Paintbrush (Rashmi Sirdeshpande and Ruchi Mhasane)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- Losing a grandparent, and finding a way forward
Read it gently when your child is ready. Afterwards, talk about a special thing that reminds you of someone you've lost.
What it helps with
- Losing a grandparent
- Grief and sadness
- Keeping memories alive
- Art and creativity
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What did Dadaji love doing?”
- “What did he teach his grandson?”
- “How did the boy feel when Dadaji died?”
- “Why couldn’t he use the paintbrush?”
- “What changed?”
- “What reminds you of someone you love?”
5-minute activities to try together
Memory painting
Paint a picture of a happy memory with someone special.
Special object
Choose an object that reminds you of someone and tell its story.
Free printables: Dadaji's Paintbrush worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
Badger's Parting Gifts (Susan Varley)
- Best for
- Death, grief and remembering someone you love
- Age
- 4-8
Lost and Found (Oliver Jeffers)
- Best for
- Loneliness, and the friendships we don't expect
- Age
- 3-7
The Dot (Peter H. Reynolds)
- Best for
- Children who say 'I can't' before they've tried
- Age
- 4-8
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.