Memory boxes hold important keepsakes for bereaved parents, e.g. a lock of hair, blankets the baby was wrapped in or similar. Many hospitals and volunteer organizations now offer such boxes to parents who have to face the tragedy of losing a child. The boxes can contain a variety of items and we have collected a list of these items to provide ideas for hospitals or volunteers who intend to start such a memory box program.
Items for the family
- Kit to take hand / foot prints
- Kit to take hand / foot moulds
- Scissors with note to take a lock of hair
- Details about counselling services specialized on infant loss
- Information about local support organizations / groups / networks
- Funeral options (any specialized, local burial places such as Little Spirits Garden, general information on burial vs. cremation, local funeral homes, information which funeral homes waive fees for infant death)
- General information
- Online support / networks such as Miss Foundation, October 15, Still Standing Magazine
- Book list / other media such as documentaries / movies
- Reminder to take personal items home (measuring tape, clothes, hats, blankets, hospital bracelets) that baby used
- A nice candle for the family to light on special occasions like birthdays
- Pen and journal
- Seeds for planting in remembrance of the child
- Personal care items such as travel sized deodorant for mom while in hospital
- Teddy bears
- Forget Me Not seeds
Items specifically for mothers
- Regulations / eligibility regarding maternity leave and/or sick leave
- Information on suppressing lactation and/or donating breast milk
- Stamping necklace kit
- How do mothers grieve? Literature / information specifically focusing on normal grief reactions of women
Items specifically for fathers
- How do fathers grieve? Literature / information specifically focusing on normal grief reactions of men
Items for siblings
- Smaller boxes for siblings to hold mementos
- Suggestions for handprints together as family
This list of items is meant to provide ideas which items could be included in a memory box. The box will likely be best received if it has a carefully selected mix of items to not overwhelm the bereaved family. Sometimes it may be suitable to provide contact details for a follow-up and letting bereaved parents know that they can get in touch for other items or suggestions after a little while.