Burial services provide a way to honor your loved one and help you process your grief. But children need to process their feelings of grief, too. While there is no perfect age to discuss death and funerals, you know your child best. If you decide to explain burial services to them, use this guide to prepare for the conversation. 

4 Tips to Help Kids Understand Burial Services 

1. Ask Them First

Before giving your own explanation, ask your child what they know or think about death. This not only shows that they can talk about this with you but also gives you a starting point for your explanation. 

2. Validate Their Feelings 

Let your child know that any fear, sadness, or confusion they are feeling is normal. Encourage them to express their feelings by writing, drawing, or expressing themselves in another art form. This can include writing a note to the deceased or drawing a picture of a favorite memory with them. 

3. Share Your Feelings 

Don’t let the conversation be one-sided. Tell your child that you feel sad, too, and that other adults at the burial service will also be mourning. Reinforce that it’s okay to miss the deceased loved one. 

4. Be Honest 

Explain in simple terms what death means. Prepare them for the memorial service, too. Explain the order of events and what is expected of them. This may include putting a flower on the casket or sitting quietly during the service. 

5. Include Them in the Service

If they were close to the deceased, involve them in the preparations. For example, they can choose the flowers that will be displayed. Older children can read a poem at the service if they feel comfortable. Participation helps them express and experience their grief, so they can move forward. 

The compassionate professionals at TP White & Sons in Cincinnati, OH, take pride in personalizing funeral planning to honor the departed. They also provide resources to families and friends to encourage grieving in a way that allows for natural healing. Learn more about their grief and guidance resources online or call (513) 231-7150 to discuss your funeral planning needs.