Dec 14

Tragedy in Connecticut- Talking to Your Kids

Our thoughts and prayers go to the families of the victims, teachers, police & medical staff in Newtown, Connecticut.
When disaster strikes that is entirely out of our frame of reference, we are shocked and often have no idea how to best support our children and youth.  Please refer to the attached documents that may help you at your school or with your family.
Here are some resources to help you help your kids deal with their feelings and emotions when emergency or tragedy takes place:

 

Some key points to remember:
  • Protect your children from the psychological saturation that comes from social media and from watching graphic coverage on TV.
  • Talk through anything that they might feel is disturbing.
  • The younger the child, the more important it is be concrete in your language.
  • Have a grasp of the facts and stop speculation that is outside of the facts.
  • CIRT members and counsellors are available to assist at each school as well as at the SD62 School Board Office.

We understand that many of the students in SD62 will hear about this tragedy and face a lot of confusing emotions.Parents are urged to talk openly to their kids about the recent tragedy. if they feel their child could use some extra support, please speak to your school’s Counsellor for more support and information.

Lindsay Vogan

1 comment

8 pings

Skip to comment form

    • Nina Sparks on 14 December, 2012 at 3:28 pm

    Thank you for this useful information. I’ve forwarded your email to my sons grandparents whom I think should know about some helpful tips in talking with my Son. I am very impressed with your prompt reaction to the tragedy this morning in the US. Thanks for this email!

    Also I’m sure the schools have a ‘lock down’ procedure that the kids are aware of, and practice for, in any type of significant event.

    Thanks again,
    Nina Spark, parent in Metchosin

Comments have been disabled.