Van Tassel Funeral Home

We are pleased to offer a formal preparation program for children and adolescents to help them understand what happens at a viewing or funeral service. This program, run by a certified child life specialist Angie Koeneker, MS, CCLS, uses material prepared specifically for our funeral home as well as a site tour and expressive activities to help children understand what to expect. During this time, there is ample opportunity to address questions, concerns and misconceptions of the children and adolescents. A preparation can be done days or even hours in advance of a service. Help for children attending a viewing or funeral service We are here for any children or adolescents that may attend a viewing or funeral service. A certified child life specialist is available during the viewing or service to help children throughout your time at the funeral home. Children and adolescents are given the opportunity to participate in expressive activities to say goodbye to their loved ones. Activities are made available in an adjacent room where children have the opportunity to take a break when needed. To many families, this service has given their children the opportunity to participate in a viewing or service that was meaningful to them. Activities include special artwork to be included in the casket or used during the service, memory collages, creating flowers and hearts with messages for their loved ones, and more. Children's Grief The Van Tassel Funeral Home recognizes the needs of children and adolescents are different than those of adults. We are pleased to offer a variety of programming that addresses these unique needs. Please speak with us about how we can best help you and your family.

Include Me Too is a non profit organization providing support services for children attending funerals or visitations free of charge.  A certified child life specialist is available to help children understand what to expect at a funeral or visitation, and to provide developmental support to children ages 3-18 years old to assist them in saying goodbye. https://includemetoonj.org/

Help Include Me Too NJ raise funds to reach more children and families. We will be hosting a memorial butterfly release in conjunction with the Van Tassel Funeral Home on August 21, 2021, at 2pm. The names of those we are remembering will be read while we release butterflies in their memory. Each butterfly sponsorship is $15 and all proceeds are tax deductible and help Include Me Too NJ reach more grieving children. Please note: You do not need to attend to participate. To sponsor a butterfly, please visit our website https://includemetoonj.org/?page_id=48 Include Me Too is a 501(c)3 nonprofit