Talk
honestly of the magnitude of what has happened.
It is essential that
children express their feelings, especially during times of crisis.
Parents or caregivers should speak to children about a crisis such
as this. Be calm, and open to their questions and feelings.
Let your child’s
questions lead the way – answer them as best you can. “I
don’t know” is an acceptable answer.
Children will
inevitably feel as if they are not safe – while the likelihood
of events impacting them here are less, discuss how events like this
do take place, and that all measures to keep people safe are being
taken.
Be honest about your
own feelings about the tragedy. Sharing your feelings gives your
children the courage to share theirs.
Take a
break from the news.
Think about an
activity the family can do tonight, as the airwaves are filled with
pictures of the tragedy. Or create some quiet time before bedtime to
be with your children.
Be patient
– children will often revisit the feelings and ask questions
again and again.
After a tragedy of
this magnitude, children will need to share stories, fears, and
grief. It is normal for children to be repetitive with their
questions. Be open to talking to your child and addressing their
questions and concerns as they come up.
Ask them about their
dreams and encourage them to discuss their thoughts and feelings.
Recognize
that a crisis often manifests itself through behavior.
Normal behaviors
include aggression, fatigue, destructive behavior, reversion to an
earlier developmental stage, lack of appetite, insomnia, among
others. It is important to talk to your child and be patient with
these feelings.
Arrange some physical
methods for children to express their feelings of anger, fear, and
anxiety. Some activities such as clay, painting, ripping old phone
books, creating a collage, and using blocks are outlets for children
to put their feelings out in the open.
Get
support for yourself and your children.
Reach out to others
in your community to build a base of support.
Access any spiritual
resources your family may participate in.
Keep in touch with
your child’s school – find out how they are responding to
the crisis.
Give lots of extra
love and hugs to children during these times.
For
Teachers:
As a teacher or support person in the school, you are
an important resource to the children. In light of today’s
national tragedy we are aware that children will bring their fear,
anxiety, and confusion to school with them. We hope the
following information can be of help to you.
Our mission is to provide loving support
to grieving children and the community through peer support,
outreach, and education. We provide a safe environment for
those who are grieving the death or coping with a life-threatening
illness of a family member or friend.
