Be it school shootings on the national news, and/or some local and regional school lockdown experiences and incidents here in Central Texas, many of our scholars, our families, and our community’s teachers and staff are understandably experiencing higher levels of anxiety and stress.
And families and educators are struggling to find the words to have hard conversations with children about community violence.
We hope these resources help you, your families, and/or your students during this time.
Sliding Scale Counseling Options
Lifeworks has youth, individual, couples and family counseling on a sliding scale as well as accept insurance. Call the office and ask for a counseling intake.
- East location is (512)735-2100
- South location (512)735-2400
- North location (512) 735-2400
https://www.lifeworksaustin.org/counseling/
https://www.lifeworksaustin.org/contact/
Talking to Children About Violence
From the National Association of School Psychologists
High profile acts of violence, particularly in schools, can confuse and frighten children who may feel in danger or worry that their friends or loved-ones are at risk. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears.
- Reassure children that they are safe. Emphasize that schools are very safe. Validate their feelings. Explain that all feelings are okay when a tragedy occurs. Let children talk about their feelings, help put them into perspective, and assist them in expressing these feelings appropriately.
- Make time to talk. Let their questions be your guide as to how much information to provide. Be patient; children and youth do not always talk about their feelings readily. Watch for clues that they may want to talk, such as hovering around while you do the dishes or yard work. Some children prefer writing, playing music, or doing an art project as an outlet. Young children may need concrete activities (such as drawing, looking at picture books, or imaginative play) to help them identify and express their feelings.
Continue reading the full article here:
Community Violence: Resources from Sesame Street
Alan explains to Rosita what community violence is. It’s hard to know how to help young children understand and cope with the effects of violence in their own community, but there are ways to help them feel safer.
Additional resources: Violence – Sesame Workshop