We have a family situation that has happened too often already for us...Maybe someone has hands on experience and advice..A year ago my wife's brother passed away at the age of 46, he left a wife and twin 8 year old girls...My wife has had a problem dealing with different situations of his death and wanting to be in the lives of her nieces[some reluctance with the twin's mother]..

Now we have another tragedy...The wife of my brother's son[nephew] , passed away yesterday, leaving a 3 year old girl and a 5 year old boy...I don't have a clue how all this will work in the absence of their 34 year old mother..

What can be said to them at such an early age? How do you handle questions?
How do you handle the immediate emotions in the next few days?

I usually have the answers, but this time I might be stumped...giving all the ages..

We need the advice not only to help the babes but the adults also...Any advice will be appreciated..