November 19th was National Children's Grief Awareness Day. I was fortunate to spend the afternoon with one of my favorite people under four feet tall...my youngest son, Hudson, and his preschool class! I read them part of the book, What's Heaven by Maria Shriver and gave them coloring books and an educational kit starring Elmo to share with their families.
As a Funeral Director, it amazes me how many families are afraid to involve their children in a funeral or memorial service. Most adults seem to be uncomfortable with their own grief and therefore have a hard time helping their children through the process.
Fortunately, there are a growing number of resources available to help children (and their parents) understand death and grief. A simple search on the internet will come up with a vast variety of books appropriate for children. There are grief camps nationwide that help children connect with others who have lost a parent or other close relative. And there are many gifted counselors who have devoted their time to grief counseling and grief therapy.
One of the most healing things families can do during the funeral ceremony is to involve their children. Depending on the child's age, there are many ways they can be participate. Simple things such as having the child color a picture or note that goes with the deceased can make a profound impact on helping the child feel like their loss is recognized. Ask your Funeral Director for ideas on how to involve your children!
As a Funeral Director, it amazes me how many families are afraid to involve their children in a funeral or memorial service. Most adults seem to be uncomfortable with their own grief and therefore have a hard time helping their children through the process.
Fortunately, there are a growing number of resources available to help children (and their parents) understand death and grief. A simple search on the internet will come up with a vast variety of books appropriate for children. There are grief camps nationwide that help children connect with others who have lost a parent or other close relative. And there are many gifted counselors who have devoted their time to grief counseling and grief therapy.
One of the most healing things families can do during the funeral ceremony is to involve their children. Depending on the child's age, there are many ways they can be participate. Simple things such as having the child color a picture or note that goes with the deceased can make a profound impact on helping the child feel like their loss is recognized. Ask your Funeral Director for ideas on how to involve your children!