A child funeral can be one of the most difficult and challenging things that you have to deal with as a parent. It can be overwhelming, but there are a few simple things that you can do to help make the experience easier for your child and yourself.
Preparing For Your Child’s Funeral
The first thing that you need to do is decide what kind of funeral or memorial service will be best for your child and your family. This can be something as small and private as a special ceremony at home or something more elaborate, like a funeral service in a chapel or at a graveside.
It is also important to consider whether you would prefer your child to be buried in a cemetery or cremated. It is very common for people to choose to have their child buried in a cemetery, and many families find that this is the most meaningful way to honor their child’s life.
Your child’s funeral might include a committal ceremony where the coffin is left on display during the service, or you may wish for it to be hidden from view by curtains during the entire funeral. You can also choose to have the ashes scattered or collected in a special place.
You should also discuss what you want your child to wear during the funeral or memorial service, as well as any other aspects of the event that will be important for them to know about. This will give them the chance to share their feelings and memories about the person who has died, and will provide them with some of the support they need during this very difficult time.
If your child is very young, you might be able to find someone to sit with them during the service who will be able to keep an eye on them and reassure them that they are not alone in this difficult time. It is also a good idea to make sure that they have some quiet toys and books with them so that they can take a break when they are feeling overwhelmed.
Children are very sensitive to emotions, and if they haven’t been taught to cope with grief, it can be very difficult for them to understand why the people around them are crying and upset. This can cause them to feel confused and uncomfortable, and it may be hard for them to express their own emotions at this stage of the grieving process.
Talking about the Funeral
You can start talking to your child about death, as soon as you feel it is appropriate for them to do so. It is important to remember that a child’s grief is a normal part of their growth, and it will take them time to come to terms with the loss.
As they get older, it is also important to talk about the person who has died, and how their life will change now that they are no longer there. You may want to discuss the funeral plan and ask them if they are comfortable with it, or even if they can have a role in planning it.