Dealing with death is never easy., but one question many parents face is when to allow a child to attend a funeral service. The short answer? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. With that said, here are some important factors to consider:
Developmental factors
Children develop at different rates, and it’s essential to consider your child’s emotional and cognitive maturity. By age 7 or so, children begin to understand that death is final and irreversible. This age is typically when they start to understand the concept of a funeral service as a way to honor and say goodbye to someone who has passed away.
Grieving process
Children grieve differently than adults. The challenge is that children don’t have the emotional tools or coping skills that most adults have and, therefore, will need extra support and guidance. And if your child is struggling with the idea of attending a funeral, listen to their concerns and consider their feelings.
Relationship to the deceased
Consider your child’s relationship to the deceased. If they were a close family member (grandparent, parent, even a close aunt or uncle), it might be appropriate for your child to attend the service. However, having your child attend the services may be unnecessary if the deceased was a distant relative or friend.
Logistics
What time is the funeral taking place? Is it during school hours? These are essential considerations when deciding whether to bring your child along. If you live in Contra Costa County, for example, then look for funeral homes near Lafayette to ensure the service is easily accessible. The odds are good, though, that family and friends will understand if you decide not to bring your child.
Culture and traditions
Consider your family’s cultural and religious background. One reason? The length of the service. Some religions’ funeral services might be too long for a young child to be expected to sit through reasonably.
There’s no “right” answer to the question of when it is appropriate for a child to attend a funeral service. It largely depends on the child. Consider the above factors & some insights from reputed funeral homes like Queen of Heaven Cemetery & Funeral Center to make an informed decision that’s right for you and your child.
