Your child’s first experience with death will require some preparation. They will likely have a lot of questions for you, and you’ll be wondering how to appropriately include your child in mourning rituals such as funeral services. Before attending the funeral, prepare them so they will show the proper respect and will benefit as much a possible from the service.

How to Prepare a Child for Attending Funeral Services

1. Give Them a Choice

After you have explained to your child what will happen at the funeral service and why it is held, let them decide whether they want to attend. They should not be forced to attend. If they decide not to go, talk with them about why they don’t and try to address any fears they may have. If they still don’t want to go, find someone they know to watch them at home while you attend.

2. Allow Them to Participate

If the deceased is a family member that your child loved, allow them to participate in the funeral services in addition to attending. This gives them a sense of ownership in the mourning process so they can get more from the experience. They can participate by helping select flowers, readings, or caskets. They could choose something that belonged to the deceased to be displayed, or help you create a picture slideshow for the service.

3. Be Honest & Open

Begin by finding out what your child already knows — or thinks they know — about death. You can then add what they need to know. Be as upfront as possible and don’t skirt difficult topics, such as the fact that they will not be coming back. Avoid using terms such as “passed away” or “lost,” instead of using the term “dead” so there’s no confusion. Encourage their questions and answer them honestly.

When your family has lost a loved one, the staff at Hardwick & Sons Funeral Home will provide the support you need. They have been serving the Chattanooga, TN, community since 1926 with caring funeral services and cremation services. They offer various options in their burial services to suit your loved one’s wishes, from a traditional to a green burial. Learn more on their website and call the funeral home at (423) 267-1244 to request their assistance.