“All too often, children are the forgotten grievers…”                                                                Mary Keane, RN, MA, OCN                                                                Executive Director, Mary’s Place   Someone has said, “If children are old enough to love, they’re old enough to grieve.” It is after all, because we love someone, that we grieve for them when they’re no longer here.   There are many websites and organizations that specialize in helping children in grief; only a few of them are listed here. As for the funeral home's role, most counselors agree that children should be allowed to choose if they want to attend the services and if they want to participate in some way. They also stress that children need to be informed about what will happen and what to expect in order to make a good decision. Your funeral director can help in kindly explaining this to them, if you would like. Most funeral directors take special care in showing sensitivity to children.

Many funeral homes have a children’s corner or room for use during visiting hours or services. It usually includes toys, books, games, and stuffed animals for their comfort and enjoyment.