I say yes. I took a baby to a funeral; we knew the widower and he was happy (if that's the right word) to see DS there. I would say that if the baby is screaming then leave the service, but my DS slept through the entire thing, which was great for me.
As for what to wear, a lot of people stipulate "happy colourful clothes" but if not, wear something sombre. It doesn't have to be black; gray and white are also colours of mourning. Dark colours should be OK if that's all you have. My funeral plan stipulates that mourners MUST wear black because you're all going to miss me and mourn me properly. It also states DH and DS must wear mourning for at least 3 months, ideally a year. But most people aren't that dictatorial.
i went to my cousin's husbands funeral just a few weeks ago - i was concerned about taking DD, so i asked her for HER take on it. she said exactly the same as the others - seeing a baby reminds people that life is precious and she wanted DD there. we went, and DD was perfect. she was a bit chatty and i felt making too much noise (the set up was attrocious - no speakers etc) - so i had her in a ring sling and just went and stood up the back.
if you're concerned about taking your bub, ask the people closest to the person that passed away. some find it difficult but most will welcome the distraction
I have just been to one two days ago. I wish I could have taken my children, but logistically this was impossible. It would have been wonderful to have them there, but in retrospect, as I was a pallbearer and had noone (I could ask fairly) to mind them if they played up and it was over 40 degrees it is better that they weren't.
I think it is wonderful to have children at funerals. I also think any attire is ok as long as it's not provocative.
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks