About a year ago, I began working hard to help my family to become closer together. I talked with my kids and worked with my family members, and we set up a few different ways to create a stronger, more friendly home culture. We started spending tons of time together and doing what we could to streamline things, and it was really interesting to see how much we grew closer. I wanted to start this blog to help other people to do what they could to make things right. Check out this website for great information that could improve your family dynamic.
Unfortunately, not all funerals are for those who have reached ripe old age. Young adults, teens, and children all pass away unexpectedly. However, some families find it especially difficult to plan a funeral for an infant. Most of the time, this situation is unexpected and challenging. If you are part of the planning process and wondering where even to begin, this guide can help you know what to focus on when planning a baby's funeral.
1. Contact a local funeral home.
Most of the planning doesn't have to be done by you. Funeral homes can often take point on making schedules, printing programs, and even contacting a local cemetery, so you don't have to worry about it. Many times, funeral homes will donate their services to people who have lost infants as a community service to help reduce the stress and pain a family might feel during this time.
When meeting at the funeral home, you can provide special requests. For example, you might prefer your baby to wear a certain an outfit, or you might want the burial to occur at a certain time of day. These special requests often have great significance for the grieving family, and funeral homes are happy to accommodate.
Your funeral home will also take of logistics like transportation. Including hospital pick-up and bringing the baby to the service.
2. Choosing a burial option.
Funeral homes accommodate to the burial option you prefer, and these can vary in cost. For example, some memorial gardens may have a section set aside especially for babies and young children, with simple markers for each small plot. These may be less expensive than buying a full plot at a cemetery, but if you get a full plot, you may have more options for markers or headstones, which some families like to have.
There are other options as well, including cremation. Some families like the idea of cremation so they can keep or spread the ashes in a place that is meaningful to them.
3. You can still invite many to the funeral, even if they did not meet or know your baby.
In a typical funeral case, people come to share memories and grieve together for the deceased. Some parents may feel like there aren't that many people to invite. However, you should invite as many as you feel comfortable. Funerals are also for the living, and having the support of family and friends can be a good gift during this time. Also, many people will still grieve for your baby because they too were looking forward to a future of getting to know them.
For more information on planning a funeral for an infant, contact a local funeral home like Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home Inc.