Let's Talk About the Funeral

In order to partner with parents and other adults giving care to grieving children and teenagers, we have developed a program we call "Let's Talk About the Funeral"©.

What is the Purpose of this Program?
This program is uniquely designed to help children and teens begin their grief experience in a healthy manner by equipping them to have a more positive funeral experience. The program is tailored to the developmental needs of each participant, and is provided to the families we serve at no additional charge.

During this Program we Will:

• Explain what death is and ensure that each child has a proper understanding of the circumstances of the death.
  
• Explain the meaning of applicable terms such as casket, viewing, and pall bearer, or cremation and urn.
  
• Let the children and teenagers see the casket and/or urn their family has chosen and demonstrate how they work.
  
• Inform the participants regarding the funeral, memorial, and burial services that have been planned by explaining what to expect.
  
• Prepare the youths to see their deceased loved one if a time of viewing is planned.
  
• Discuss ways the children and teens can take part in the planned services.
  
• Present all participants with age appropriate booklets to help them better understand their grief experience.
  
• Give each child and teen a Memory Book to record their memories and photographs of the deceased.
  

Who Can Participate?
Any school-age child or teenager who is a relative or close friend of the deceased is welcomed to participate in this program. We also encourage a parent or guardian to join us.

Why Offer Such a Program?

Children and teens want to be informed. Parents don't always feel comfortable talking about death and funerals with their children.

Some children (especially teens) will not naturally express their true feelings out loud. This program serves as a catalyst to help them voice what they think and how they feel about their loss, therefore it can be as helpful for the adults as it is for the children.

How can I Receive More Information About This Program?

If you have any questions or would like additional information about this or any of our bereavement programs or services, you can contact our Bereavement Coordinator by calling (302) 999-8277 or by e-mail at bereavement@dohertyfh.com.