Depending on your child's age and their relationship to the deceased, you might decide to bring them to the funeral of a loved one. However, this can be a difficult step for a little one, as the service can be confusing or overwhelming for someone who doesn't understand. To ensure they're emotionally ready and able to respect fellow mourners, practice the following tips.

How to Get Children Ready for a Funeral

1. Explain What to Expect

Children might have questions about funeral practices and traditions. Giving explanations at the event can be disruptive, so provide answers beforehand. Let them know the purpose of a funeral is for people to say final goodbyes to those they've lost. Your child should also know the memory of the deceased is honored in different ways. This means those in attendance might share stories, sing songs, read biblical passages, light candles, or put flowers on the casket.

2. Validate Their Feelings

From denial to anger and sadness, your child will go through several stages of grief. Talk about the different emotions they're feeling and let them know they're not alone. This way, they'll understand why people are expressing sadness and other heightened emotions at the funeral service.

3. Let Them Pay Tribute in a Special Way

With adult mourners doing most of the talking, children might feel excluded from the event. To ensure they feel their presence is appreciated, ask if they want to find their own way to honor the deceased. For example, they may wish to wear their loved one's favorite color or write a special note to put in the casket.

For professional help creating a funeral to cherish the memory of someone you’ve lost, contact Porto Funeral Homes. Serving families in New Haven County, CT, for over 75 years, this team provides cremation and burial services, as well as transportation for convenience. Find details about their funeral options online, and view facility pictures on Facebook. You can also call (203) 467-3000 for assistance in East Haven and (203) 934-5000 to reach the West Haven branch.