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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]We attended funerals in elementary school. I wouldn’t push any of the kids to see an open casket. People learn the cultural norms around grief by grieving. Absent special needs, [b]even your youngest is old enough to sit through a funeral[/b]. There will be food and family and reminiscences. Don’t deny them that. If you’re concerned about behavior, bring a coloring book for the service and sit in the back.

I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. [/quote]

Absolutely. My kids went to their first funeral when they were 7 and 5, end of first grade/presxchool for them. I was concerned how they’d handle it but they did great. We told them what to expect, why it was important to be there, how to behave. So many older relatives commented how much they loved seeing the kids there and how the kids’ presence made them happy at a sad time and my kids may not have been able to express it at the time but now that they’re older and have more perspective, I think they would say they are glad they went. Funerals are a time to be with family and say goodbye together. It’s not the only way to find closure and process feelings when a family member dies, but it’s good to be part of/observe the family rituals and traditions surrounding death as a part of your own personal grief journey.

My condolences.

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