One of the many decisions you may have to make during the funeral planning process is whether or not you will allow your small children to attend. There are strong arguments on both sides of the issue, and the choice is ultimately up to you. If you do decide to bring your children to a funeral, make sure that you prepare them in advance. Here are four ways you can prepare your child for a funeral as part of your funeral planning process.

Preparing Your Child for a Funeral

1. Explain What Your Child Will See There

Since most small children do not participate in funeral planning, they generally have little idea of what to expect. Spend some time before the big day talking about what your children will see and experience. Prepare them for seeing the body and for all the various reactions that people are likely to have.

2. Spell Out Behavior Expectations

Next, make sure that your child knows exactly how he or she is expected to be behave at the funeral. Oftentimes, something as simple as setting expectations and consequences during the funeral planning process can make a dramatic difference in a child’s behavior. While crying, being upset and getting angry are all acceptable behaviors, running throughout the funeral home and being generally disruptive are not.

3. Answer Any Questions Your Child May Have

Funerals can bring up many questions in children, especially questions about what happens after you die. Handle these questions during the funeral planning process, when you will have time to discuss them properly. If your beliefs differ from others’, you may want to explain their beliefs as well.

4. Keep Your Own Reactions Appropriate

Children generally don’t know how to respond to death and funerals, so they will pick up on subtle cues from you. While it is good to show some emotions, you may want to keep your most vulnerable displays for once they are in bed, if possible. This will help funeral planning go more smoothly for everyone.

We Can Help with Funeral Planning Issues

Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida wants to help you remember your loved one the way they would want to be remembered. With everything from flower arrangements to memorabilia and urns & caskets, we have your needs covered.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

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