When a loved one passes away, one of the many decisions you must make is whether your child will attend the funeral service with you. Depending on their age, going to the memorial can help kids process their grief and come to understand death as a natural part of life. If you have decided your little one will be accompanying you, the team at Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, of Canandaigua, NY, recommends using the following tips to prepare them for the experience.

Talking With Your Kids About Funerals

1. Be Honest

Using age-appropriate language, tell your child why the event is being held, and explain what they’ll see there. Let them know, for instance, people might be visibly upset or crying, and remind them the service is usually a quiet affair. If you know there will be an open casket at the service, let your child know that it's okay if they don't want to get close to it. Allow them to ask questions, and answer them to the best of your ability. 

2. Tell Them How They Can Help

There’s no reason your little one must sit quietly throughout the entire service, especially if they see someone they know crying. Talk to your child about a few ways they can help other people process their grief. For instance, if they see a loved one in tears, they can hug them or remind them how much they care. 

3. Encourage Them to Share Their Feelings

Let your child know it’s perfectly acceptable and healthy to express their emotions. If they are sad or confused and feel like crying, give them a safe space to do so. It’s also okay for them to not show any outward feelings of grief and to focus on comforting others. In fact, many people find a child’s presence at a funeral refreshing because kids are naturally happy and curious.

If you’re preparing to hold a funeral service for a loved one, let the compassionate staff at Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home help. For over a century, they have offered a wide variety of services to area residents, ranging from pre-planning to cremation. To learn more about how they can assist you, call (585) 394-4280 or visit them online.