Telling Children about Cremation

Posted on March 27, 2023 by McVeigh Funeral Home, Inc. under cremation services
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Colonie, NY, cremation service

When a loved one dies, it can be a difficult, emotional time for everyone involved. If your family has decided to have a Colonie, NY, cremation service for the deceased, you may wonder how to tell your children about the process. Explaining cremation to children is a sensitive topic. Still, you can help them understand what will happen and why with the right approach and tone.

What is cremation?

Cremation is a process that often uses high temperatures to reduce a deceased person’s body to bone fragments which are subsequently processed into remains called “ash”. This can take several hours to complete, depending on the person’s size and the type of equipment used. After the cremation, the remains are placed in an urn or container and given to the family.

When to talk to your children about cremation

It’s important to have an open and sincere conversation with your children about the death of a loved one and what will happen next. However, the timing of this conversation will depend on several factors, such as the age of your children, their emotional maturity, and how well they knew the person who passed away.

If your children are young, you may want to wait until you have all had some time to process the initial shock and grief of losing someone you love. For older children, you may want to explain what cremation is before the funeral or memorial service so they know what to expect.

How to talk to your children about cremation

When explaining cremation to children, it’s important to use age-appropriate language and be as clear as you can about what will happen. Here are some tips to help you have this conversation:

  1. Use simple language: Depending on your children’s ages, you may need to use simple language to explain cremation. Avoid using technical terms or euphemisms that might confuse them, but you also don’t want to be too blunt so you don’t frighten them.
  2. Be honest: Explain what cremation is and how it works. Don’t sugarcoat or avoid the facts, but try to be gentle and understanding. Children may have many questions, so be prepared to answer them as honestly as possible.
  3. Discuss what happens after the cremation: Explain what happens after the cremation to your children, such as how the ashes are collected and placed in an urn and what you plan to do with the ashes, such as scattering them.
  4. Leave room for questions: Children may question not just cremation but also death and what happens next. Encourage them to seek clarity and provide answers as honestly as possible.
  5. Use books and resources: Many books and online resources are available to help explain cremation and death to children. Consider using these resources to help your children understand what is happening.
  6. Reassure them: Losing a loved one can be a scary and overwhelming experience for children. Reassure them that they are loved and supported and that they can come to you with any questions or concerns.

Colonie, NY, cremation service

Conclusion

Granted, explaining cremation to children can be a sensitive and emotional topic. However, you can help them understand what will happen and why with the right approach. Use simple language, be honest, and reassure them they are loved and supported even during such an uncertain time. Remember, everyone grieves differently, so give your children time and space to process theirs.

Our cremation service in Colonie, NY, is, of course, here for you whether you need physical or virtual support before, during, or after services with us. Contact us today.