If someone you know has passed on, the family members involved with planning their services may choose cremations in Baltimore, MD as a final disposition. After cremation, there are many options to consider. The family might have a small, intimate ceremony around scattering the ashes or they might have a larger memorial service open to friends as well. If you are going to attend some type of cremation service and you will have a child with you, there are certain things you can do to prepare them for the service.

Be Age-Appropriately Honest

If your child is on the young side, you may not have to tell them anything at all about the service. They will not really know what is going on and will act as they always act in any situation. You will want to be sure you can keep them entertained and quiet out of respect for the family, but otherwise no explanations are necessary. If your child is old enough to be observant, they are going to have a lot of questions. It’s best to answer those in advance so you aren’t bombarded at the memorial service. Tell them what to expect and what will happen and answer anything they want to know in an honest, age-appropriate manner.

Talk About Respect

Again, depending on the age of your child, you will need to let them know what you expect of them during the cremation service. If you attend church regularly, perhaps your child already knows how to sit quietly and color while things are going on around them. If not, you might want to practice being respectful at home, so your child knows what to do. Children will act as they are used to acting in any situation, regardless of what is going on. If your child is used to situations that demand respect and a quiet demeanor, they are more likely to act in the appropriate manner.

Be Honest With Yourself

As much as you’d like to think your child is a perfect angel, no child is perfect, and every kid will have their moments and meltdowns. Be honest with yourself about how your child will act during the cremation service. If it’s important that they are there for their own grieving and closure, by all means, bring them. But if you want to attend a cremation service for a friend of yours that they don’t really know, consider hiring someone to watch your child while you attend alone.

When you are ready for Baltimore cremation services, make sure your child is ready too. Preparing them in advance can help you avoid embarrassing mishaps and distractions during the service. You want the family of the deceased to concentrate on honoring their loved one, not your child. If you need tips on how to speak to your child about cremation, contact Hari P. Close Funeral Service, P.A. at (410) 327-3100 for resources. We’re here to help you through this difficult topic in any way we can. Visit us at 5126 Belair Rd Baltimore, MD 21206.