The loss of a loved one is difficult for everyone, but, for adults, the burden is easier to comprehend. For a child who is going to a funeral service for the first time, however, that feeling is entirely different. Processing the situation can get quite confusing for little ones, but talking with them can help. In Onalaska, WI, Fossum Funeral and Cremation Service helps families with everything from funeral planning to the final cremation and burial process. Here, they share how you can help children heal from grief.

3 Ways to Comfort Grieving Children

1. Be Honest

When speaking with a child, try not to sugarcoat the situation. Death is a part of life, and it’s difficult for everyone. Clarify what happened in a loving, compassionate manner. Loss will happen more than once in your little one’s lifetime, so explaining it in a way they can understand will lessen the burden over time. Explaining the reason behind their feelings and why they’re perfectly natural lets children know it’s okay to feel this way and they’re not alone in their grief. 

2. Listen

Grief settles in at different times. While most little ones experience the pain after a funeral service, some burst into tears hearing common words like “burial” or “cremation.” They know the words, but they don’t know their meaning, and, after the service itself, they might have a hard time processing what just occurred.

Whenever your child is ready to speak, prepare to listen. With such a difficult topic, they’ll come to you on their own. Share stories and happy memories, and listen to theirs. What do they miss most about their loved one? What were their favorite moments? Exchanging stories is an excellent way to help. 

3. Walk Them Through the Funeral Service

Before a service takes place, walk your child through the process. Explain what they are going to see and why that tradition takes place. If they’re going to encounter a coffin, for instance, tell them what it means. Let them know it’s okay to hold their loved one’s hand or lay down flowers. When a child knows what to expect before the service, they’ll walk in with a more thorough understanding. 

If you need assistance helping grieving children, the compassionate directors at Fossum Funeral Home can help. Whether your family is planning a cremation and scattering ashes or a traditional funeral service, the dedicated team has helped honor loved ones for over 90 years. Visit their website for more information on the grief process, or call (608) 783-9777 to speak with a caring professional.