As families navigate loss, it is important to ensure young children are also part of this process of grief and remembrance. This helps children’s healing, understanding, and emotional resilience. Many parents wonder if their children should attend the funeral at all. And the answer is, there is no right answer. Thoroughly including them in a sensitive and clear way can yield lasting benefits for children. Here are some ways to include children and grandchildren in funerals and memorial services.

Ways to Include Children in the Planning Process

If you decide to include your child or the little ones in the family in services for a loved one, there are some planning factors to consider that are both meaningful and sensitive to the child.

Choosing Photos or Memorabilia

Having children pick out photos of the loved one who passed creates space for them to remind themselves of the member. Photos are great to have at a service on a memorial table or to have a video tribute.

Crafting Personal Tributes

Children often express themselves best through drawing ot writing. They could draw a picture or write a letter, and this could be read or shown at the service on the memorial table.

Participating in Ceremonial Acts

Depending on the age of the children and their comfort level, children can read a short passage, light a candle, place flowers, or help hand out memorial programs. When a child is included in these small activities, they feel included and stay within their emotional capabilities.

Creating Keepsakes

Children love crafts, making remembrance items such as friendship bracelets, painting stones, or creating drawings are a creative way for children to express their feelings, but also provide keepsakes for members at the service and create comforting tokens during a hard grieving process.

Selecting Music or Readings

For older children in the family, inviting them to choose a meaningful song or reading that makes them feel connected to the loved one is a great way to include them in the service. This also gives teens a sense of responsibility and an emotional connection.

Hamel-Lydon Chapel & Cremation Services of Massachusetts

We know the grieving process is extremely difficult and that planning a memorial is a deeply personal process, and we’re here to help you create a service that truly reflects your loved one’s life. From affordable venue options to thoughtful tributes, our team will guide you every step of the way. Let us help you honor your loved one with the care, respect, and attention to detail they deserve. Contact us through our contact form or give us a call at 1-617-472-5888.