Even from an early age, children have an awareness of death; so, when someone in their life passes away, you should take this time to help them understand what is happening. This means they should attend the funeral service with you, as it allows them to process what is happening and teaches them that grieving is a normal part of life. 

5 Tips to Help Your Child Through a Funeral Service

1. Explain the Process

If you’re bringing your child to a funeral, you need to take some time before the day of the service to go over the upcoming events. This should include where you are going and why. Explain how it’s a time to say goodbye to this special person in your life who has died, and that family members and friends, who they may have never met, will be attending to honor and celebrate this person’s life.

2. Offer Comfort & Reassurance

Children, like adults, react differently to the news of a loved one’s passing. Some will cry, others will ask questions, and some might not have any reaction at all. What’s important is staying with them throughout this time, offering hugs, and answering any questions they have.

3. Encourage Them to Show Emotion

The closer the child is to the deceased the more emotions they will undoubtedly have regarding the loss. Encourage them to express these feelings, and reciprocate their emotions with what you’re feeling. This tells them that having an emotional reaction to death is perfectly normal.

4. Let Them Decide if They Want to Participate

After your child knows about each step in the funeral day, let them choose which rituals they want to participate in. This will help them to learn about the process at their own rate and avoid getting stressed out throughout the day. You can also encourage them to take part by asking if they want to have a special role in the funeral, such as reading a poem or choosing which photos to display. Just remember to never guilt your child into doing something they don’t want to do, as it could cause negative repercussions about death and funerals as they get older.

5. Plan an Alternative Ceremony

If your child doesn’t want to go to the funeral service but knew the deceased, try planning a small ceremony of your own. This will allow you to talk to them about the death and help them to understand what it means to them. It will also give them a positive experience to associate with the passing.

If you’re searching for the right team to help you plan your loved one’s funeral arrangements, the family- and locally owned Fred D. Knapp & Son Funeral Home has helped residents in Greenwich, CT, for over a century. To get in touch with someone, call (203) 869-0315. You can also learn more about their funeral services by visiting the website.