The death of a child is one of the most painful experiences that parents can endure. While there is no comfort to be found during this time, the grieving process can be eased slightly with proper planning and preparation. Although it may be difficult to talk about with your children, ensuring they understand the entire funeral process is vital. It is important to remember that every child is different and they may feel the need to express their emotions differently. It is important to be honest with them and let them know that it is ok to cry or not cry during the service.
It is recommended to give your children a clear roadmap of what will happen during the funeral services, including when and where they will take place. Be sure to include details about the casket (whether it is open or closed) and any notable changes that will be made to their body. It is also helpful to give your children a choice about whether they want to see their sibling’s body and if so, how long they would like to spend at the venue.
Many children will find it more comforting to participate in the funeral services than just be a passive observer. This can be as simple as letting them light a candle or share a favorite memory during the ceremony. For those who are too shy to do so, it is a great idea to allow them to write a message for their sibling or to place a memento in the casket or urn.
Some families will choose to bury their child immediately while others will prefer to have their cremated remains buried later. This can depend on religious beliefs, personal preferences and if you have any family or friends who will want to attend the funeral service.
Once the funeral is over, it is normal for the family to feel both physically and emotionally exhausted. It is also not uncommon to feel a resurgence of grief as if your child had died all over again. It is a good idea to ask for help and support during this difficult time from family, friends and professional grief counselors.
If you are not able to afford a funeral for your child, there is a nonprofit organization named Final Farewell that provides emergency funeral funds and guidance to families who have lost a child. They have helped thousands of families across the United States to say their final goodbyes. The charity has a very dedicated team of volunteers who are able to meet the needs of each family that they assist. You can learn more about their work by visiting their website. They also have an app for your smartphone or tablet to download so that you can access the information on-the-go. The website has a number of helpful guides and tools that will be of use to you during this difficult time. You can even request help from the charity via text messaging.