My stepkids' mom died three years ago and they still talk about her like she's coming back and I don't know if I should encourage that or gently reality-check them.
More people experience this than they realize.
Children's psychological protection mechanisms conflict with adults' need for family integration and acceptance of new realities.
“Where Are You with Blended Families & Stepparenting?”
If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.