STAR parent endorsements

"What a wonderful thing you have going with this class. It's something that is needed. We so often focus on the front end of life-(baby classes and classes for older siblings) but we don't educate on the end of life. Thank you so much for all the hard work you put into this. I personally was very touched (as were others) to see the children place their STARs in with Grandpa. What a special final tribute to a man who was a great role model for us all."

Mother of Rachel age 10, Katherine age 14, and Jonathan age 4.

See what funeral professionals are saying

"Thank you for offering this. They had so many questions. And it was a difficult time for all of us. This class helped so much."
Mother of Brad age 10 and Briane age 7.

"Thank you - this was so wonderful. Just look at them. They are so curious and relaxed around Roy (deceased). It pleases me to see them so at ease - they're not afraid."
Grandmother of Cory age 8, Jill age 6 and Cammy age 3.

"It was great! The kids enjoyed making the STARs, and understanding what Grandpa would look like and that they could touch him."
Mother of Ben age 9 and Evan age 6.

"It was wonderful, and we can't thank you enough! It prepared them and they weren't alone when first up there viewing and touching - but not in front of strangers. It helped them both tremendously."
Mother of Tyler age 9 and Tara age 7.

"I want to thank you for your time and all your input into this class. It was wonderful how you combine the personal traditions with the basic structure of the process. Also, your blending of what a child already understands with this new experience which, may be scary or at least unknown. I believe the girls felt you not only taught them something new but did it in a caring manner. That's why I'm sure my youngest took your hand after the class and let you pick her up to see her great-grandfather. My parents were very good about explaining funerals, but it was always such a busy time filled with extreme emotions. The kids were kind of left behind to put the pieces all together for themselves. Once again thank you. I hope you continue this program."
Mother of Chris age 8 and Jenny age 3.

The STAR Class was very helpful for our children. Especially the cremation and burial information. We really didn't know what to say to them. We have been able to talk about it as a family now that they understand the facts. Thank you Karen!
Mother of Megan 10 and Katie 7.

"Our children have had many discussions about life on earth - life in heaven. Also discussions about Grandpa's illness. Your class offered a place and time to discuss the events of the upcoming days. We ourselves did not feel prepared to always field the questions they may have had. I'm glad they had another expert source in which to ask questions and express concerns. Thank you!

FYI - One of Sarah and Erik's cousins (7 years old) asked her mom if, we could have 'all our funerals here too, this is a nice house'. I think this reflects on the welcoming atmosphere you provide and also on the comfortable area for children created."
Mother of Sarah age 10 and Erik age 7

"Matt, Jared, and Ashley really like the coloring project and the story about Grandpa Amos. They told us all about it. I think this is a great way to help children understand death."
Mother of Matt age 12, Jared age 9 and Ashley age 7.

"I wish there could have been a class like this when I was younger and attended grandparent's and uncle's funerals. Our kids said, 'It was cool! It helped us. It was fun.' Thank you for caring."
Father of Matt age 12, Jared age 9 and Ashley age 7.

"This was their first experience with a death and I felt the STAR Class was invaluable. I wish it were available everywhere!"
Great Aunt of Janell age 6 and Marie age 7.