(Source: http://www.haroldshouse.org)LUFKIN, TX (News Release) -
As child advocates, Harold's House would like to remind the
community that the shocking violence Friday in Connecticut impacting
elementary-aged children in the school environment highlights the necessity for
parents, teachers, and other caregivers to be aware of any related trauma our
East Texas children and families might be experiencing as these unsettling events unfold.
A statement from Laura Squiers, executive director, Harold's
House East Texas Alliance for Children:
"We are shocked and saddened by the events that have
occurred in Connecticut and our hearts and prayers go out to the families who
have suffered this tragedy. Please remember to give your kids an extra hug, and
reassurance that we live in a safe world."
Here are some recommendations from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network:
- Maintain usual routines. Normalcy will
communicate the message that children are safe and life will go on.
- Assure children they are safe at home and
school, and give information on what parents and teachers do to keep children
safe.
- Give children choices. Often traumatic events
imply a loss of control and/or chaos, so you can help children feel safe by
providing choices or control where appropriate.
- Provide a safe place for a child to talk about
what has happened, allowing them to express giving simple and realistic answers
to their questions while clarifying distortions and misconceptions.
- Warn children if you will be doing something out
of the ordinary, such as turning off the lights or making a sudden loud noise.
- Set clear, firm limits for inappropriate
behavior and develop logical, safe consequences rather than punishment-driven
response.
- Recognize that behavioral problems may be
transient and related to trauma. Remember that even the most disruptive
behaviors can be driven by trauma-related anxiety.
