×
Plan Now, Pay LaterSecure your plan today, don't pay until 9 January 2026. T&Cs apply, click here for details.
Two Together: Save £100!Save £100 when you purchase two funeral plans together. Call us for more details.
Written by Mitch Tapner.
8 minute read
Losing a child brings a sorrow that’s hard to put into words. In these moments, poetry can offer gentle expression when saying goodbye feels too heavy for speech. Whether you’re arranging a direct cremation or planning a funeral ceremony, the right verses can help share what’s in your heart.
This article offers help with finding or writing funeral poems for a son or daughter. It includes tribute ideas and explains why poetry has such a meaningful place in British funeral traditions, especially when honouring children.
Poetry has long been part of how we say goodbye. At a child’s funeral, it plays a special part by softening the silence, marking the heartbreak, and gently holding space for love that never fades.
Poems for children often use simple imagery and gentle rhythms to reflect innocence. This quiet honesty can feel both soothing and healing. Even in non-religious ceremonies, poetry can express deep emotion and offer comfort.
Whether spoken during a small gathering or printed in an order of service, a poem can feel like a final, loving gift for those listening, and for the child being remembered.
Dealing with grief can feel overwhelming. A poem, even just a short one, can bring stillness. When read slowly and with care, the words can feel like a quiet balm. They give space for reflection, without asking for a response.
Many families say that sharing a poem creates a small moment of connection. Even a few lines, read softly through tears, can make people feel less alone. And if speaking is too hard, hearing someone read a meaningful poem can say everything that needs to be said.
There’s no right or wrong choice. What matters is that the words feel true to your bond with the child. You might choose something hopeful, spiritual, quiet, or even playful. Often, the right poem finds you.
Things to think about:
Some families use poems from books or well-known writers. Others write their own. Both can be equally meaningful if the words come from the heart.
If you’re arranging a direct cremation or need to make choices quickly, Aura can support you with care and clarity. Many people who compare funeral plans with us feel reassured to know that personal touches like poems can be included, even in simple services.
*Terms and conditions apply. You will receive a funeral plan summary before purchase.*
Some common themes for a child’s funeral poem include:
If you’re looking for non-religious funeral poems, nature-based imagery can be especially comforting like stars, changing seasons, or the sea. These symbols often speak across different beliefs.
The loss of a son, whether a baby, a teenager or a grown man, can feel all-encompassing. Funeral poems for a son often speak of love, pride, and the wonder he brought into your life.
You might choose a poem that remembers his laugh, his gentleness, or the small moments you shared. Some families lean towards hopeful verses, others find comfort in words that gently hold the pain.
Examples of tone and imagery:
“You were here for a heartbeat, and we felt the whole world shift.”
“Our boy of light, our moonbeam son, you left before the dawn had come.”
Some thoughts to inspire your poem or reading:
You might also include a short tribute from someone close like a sibling, grandparent, or friend. In non-religious ceremonies, consider symbols that meant something to your son, like football, dinosaurs, stars, or trains.
Poems for a daughter often reflect joy, warmth, and the beauty she brought into the world. She might be remembered for her giggles, her kindness, or the light she carried with her.
Nature imagery like birds, butterflies, or blossoms are often used to express her spirit and brief but meaningful presence. These poems can bring comfort in ceremonies that focus on remembrance rather than religious ritual.
Sample poetic lines:
“She danced in petals, sang in rain, and vanished like the dew.”
“Our daughter, our daydream, our song in the quiet.”
Some gentle ways to honour a daughter:
These readings can come from anyone close to the child such as parents, grandparents, friends, or siblings. Children can also be involved by choosing a picture or a favourite line to share.
You don’t need to be a poet. Some of the most touching funeral tribute examples come from those who loved the child most.
If you feel able to write something yourself, keep it simple. Don’t worry about rhyme or structure. Speak from the heart. You could write about a special moment, something they loved, or how you’re feeling now.
For example:
“You loved bubbles. I still see them in the garden. I hope you’re chasing them now.”
A quiet line like that can say more than a long, polished verse.
Reading a poem aloud can be a moving moment in a funeral, whether it’s something published or written by hand. It doesn’t have to be perfect. If emotions take over, people will understand.
If you can, take time to practise. Print the poem clearly. You might also ask someone to be ready to step in and read for you, just in case.
A few things can help when reading:
People won’t remember if you stumbled. They’ll remember the love behind your words.
Planning a funeral for a child is one of the hardest things a family can face. At Aura, we’re here to help make the process as gentle and straightforward as possible.
Whether you’re arranging a direct cremation or thinking ahead with a funeral plan, we’ll take time to understand what matters to you. That might include helping you choose or include a poem, personal tribute, or special reading.
Our team is here to support you with kindness, clear guidance, and no pressure. You can speak to us at your own pace, and we’ll help you find a farewell that feels right for your child, and for you.
Yes, you can include a poem in a direct cremation. Even without a formal service, many families choose to read or share a meaningful poem as a personal tribute.
The best funeral poems for a child are the ones that reflect your unique bond. These can be gentle, hopeful, spiritual, or simple verses that speak from the heart.
No, you don’t have to read the poem yourself at a funeral. A family member, friend, or funeral professional can read it for you, or it can be included in the order of service.
To write a funeral tribute poem for your child, start with one memory or feeling. Keep the words simple and honest, there’s no need for perfect rhyme. Writing from the heart is what matters most.