This booklet is designed to assist those who may be in a situation of consoling a person with mental retardation who has either just lost a parent or friend or is near to someone whose death is imminent. The first part of the booklet explores why it is important that people with mental retardation know about the death. It provides guidance on how to explain that a death has occurred and what is possible to expect in terms of the individual's grieving. Information is then given on what parents and others can do to help the individual to grieve a loss and steps to take in teaching about death that will prepare people with mental retardation about the inevitable deaths of family members and friends. Last, the booklet uses a question and answer format to provide guidance on various situations regarding death and grieving. Community resources and other materials are listed at the end of the booklet. (CR)