How the STAR Class Works

Questions you may have:

• "Should my child attend the funeral?"
• "I have been so busy, I just haven't had time to talk to the children."
• "How do I explain this whole funeral thing?"

These questions are heard by funeral directors every day. So often, children are left out of the visitation and funeral process because parents and grandparents, struggling with their own grief and sadness just simply don't know what to say to their kids.

The STAR Class is a sensitive, caring approach to helping kids understand the visitation, funeral/memorial service through stories, pictures, discussion, a craft activity, and a STAR message.

Help at a Difficult Time

The days surrounding a death can be a confusing and disorienting time for young children. Altered daily routines and unfamiliar sights and sounds can be difficult for them to understand and cope with. Children notice even the most subtle changes in their routines and surroundings.

The STAR Class contains words and images that are not usually a part of everyday conversation for children or adults. Providing children with the opportunity to hear the words of the funeral process, to express feelings and concerns in a creative art activity, and to write a STAR message to their loved one who has died can give them a sense of power over this new experience and help allay fears about what the funeral is all about.

Visit the STAR website to learn more about this program