Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Boston Marathon Tragedy- Learning to Cope


These are the images we should be viewing.
While I was looking for pictures of celebration and joy on this topic my heart broke at each tragic picture of Boston Marathon.

It is easy to get caught up watching the news and the social media to watch the latest details. But, it does come with a cost. When the Newton School Tragedy occurred in December Kim John Payne, who wrote Simplicity Parenting, wrote an article to help families and children cope with overwhelming emotions.

I would like to share his kind words again with all of you.

From one Mother to Another Parent/Mother:

1. Tell the Truth. Be honest. Keep the dialogue age appropriate. Listen to their questions.
One person suggested not to bring up the discussion unless your child brings up the conversation. 
 Keep the hateful political rhetoric out of the conversation. 
"Yes, Viking Lady Bug, there was a shooting in Connecticut and yes little boys and girls were hurt and died."

2. Assure them they are safe at school. You are the first line for this sense of safety. Your own emtions are going to be read and observed. When explaining that there school is safe, their community is safe, their home is safe, you should remain calm about it. "Yes, Viking Monkey Boy, your school is safe."

3. Monitor the Media. This incudes Social Media ie Facebook, Google+ et al.  The media has either gone from being sensitive and tactful to overly obnoixiously sensational. As for the Social Media. I have had to warn a few of my friends to calm down the angry and hateful political rehtoric. Right now is not the time nor is it helpful. Even as adults we don't need to watch the news 24/7. It adds to our own anxiety which then is reflected onto our children. 

4. Seek professional help if worry and fear becomes more. The district I teach in has had our own school shooting tragedies. Our Humble Little Town still realing from the effects of the shootings that occured at two of our high schools. Tragedies like Friday bring back horriable memories and long buried emotions. Do not be afraid to seek help. 

5. DO NOT LET THESE DEATHS BE IN VAIN! Live! Love each other! Respect each other! Show Random Acts of Kindness. 

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