Baby Memorials

Because losing a child is such a painful loss, choosing among suitable baby memorials can be very, very difficult. There are many options available, and making a thoughtful choice can bring peace of mind in some small measure. Whether an infant was born prematurely, lived but a few moments, days or months, this child will be loved and missed forever. Memorials both express this love and bring us back to love’s embrace.

Many people find solace in direct keepsakes, like the child’s hand prints or footprints; a lock of hair; or pictures. Be sure that these things are kept and preserved – any of them can be incorporated into memorials as intimate as personal jewelry or as public as a grave marker.

It is important to decide whether the baby will be buried or cremated because some choices about memorials follow upon this decision. Then it is possible to choose among caskets or urns as well as markers and keepsakes. There may be particular guidelines within religious or family traditions. Many cemeteries have regulations concerning memorials, and while you are free to bring cremated remains to many different places, you will probably be restricted in whether you can place a memorial there.

Following all these practical considerations, the most important questions are what choices will offer the most support to everyone’s healing, especially family members. It may be helpful to look at samples or pictures to bring the possibilities into focus. Deciding what kind of memorial first, and then considering materials, colors, and any wording or pictures to be included are good steps to take. Thinking about where the memorial will be and whether it is permanent or will be kept with the family is also a key. Smaller keepsakes for everyone to take can be a way to treasure this child always.