Ren Allen

I think your room-mate was wrong to jump in and lay a heavy
judgement on their fantasy play, whether it was about death or not.
They're little and play is how children explore topics they may not
understand very well. It's how they deal with serious emotions too.
Play and art are often the only way they have to deal with these
serious issues.
It's best to calmly respond with non-judgmental comments. Instead of
re-directing them (they weren't hurting anything and didn't need re-
direction at that time) you could say "oh really?" or "what happened
to the baby?" You might have gotten clues about real life, from
their fantasy play.
They may have seen something on tv, or be affected by the war or any
number of real life situations, or simply be concerned about death
and what it all means. But you won't find out if the play gets
shamed. Open dialogue won't happen if they think their play is "bad".

Try to explore the feelings and issues without judgement or re-
direction next time. I'm very sure that no one will get hurt by
pretending a baby is dead or hurt, though it IS a serious and sad
matter in real life.

Her interest in death is something she needs to explore right now.
How about indulge her interest by getting children's books on the
topic, discussing feelings and thoughts about death and maybe even
having your own Day of the Dead celebration and honor those in your
family that have died? It's a real life issue, and real life
learning happens when there is interest. Society tends to shun
uncomfortable subjects, but we're unschoolers!! So dive right in.

Ren