The World Trade Towers have been destroyed by terrorism. An icon of America itself has been removed through a violent act. We are all stunned, angered, fearful and trying to cope. During this time of crisis it is important that we do not neglect our children. They are reacting to this crisis in their own ways. Younger children may be accepting it as another show on TV. Older adolescents may respond with anger and thoughts of revenge. Please limit or not allow live TV viewing for younger children.  Although, a great number of children will be struck by the loss of life and the loss of security.

There are Crisis Counselors who are prepared and positioned to provide services to kids and parents alike. But most will never seek these services. What then can we as parents, teachers and counselors offer to the kids that we see everyday? 

Reassurance. This is the short answer and perhaps the best. Remember when we were small and monsters stirred under the bed or in our closet, getting in bed with Mom and Dad made everything all right. The monsters may have still been there, but being reassured by the lack of fear in our parents caused us to calm down and go to sleep. In the same manner, if we can offer our students reassurance it will dispel their fears and help them stay calm. According to Maslow’s Theory, Safety is the basic human need and all other needs are based on it being met. Perception being the only reality that a person has, if our students perceive that they are safe they will be able to move on to higher needs such as education.

How can we reassure our students? First and foremost, do not lie to them. This horrible act is a fact. It is also a fact that it could happen to any of us. However, it is also a fact that we have survived this and other disasters and will probably continue to survive such. attacks by terrorism or by nature. The important thing is to continue our daily activities. It is appropriate to take time to discuss the act or even to have a moment of silence in support of families and kids who have been affected. Spending too much time discussing the event or focusing on the horror is not appropriate nor productive.  Dr. Kenneth Fletcher, associate professor of psychiatry at the University of Massachusetts School of Medicine, tells parents not to force children to talk about the attacks if they don't want to. But if they do, "let them get their feelings out. Let them make drawings or write stories. And above all, hold them, kiss them, spend time with them, and comfort them. Tell them that everyone has similar feelings, although the world can sometimes be a scary place, it is still a safe place for the most part. "

Attitude and atmosphere are more important than words. The calm reassurance of an authority figure appearing to believe that all is well will do far more to dispel fear in our students than any words of wisdom that we might say. Those who are in the right places have the right plans and are doing the right things. With this confidence in ourselves, we can offer our students a sense of well-being that will help them cope and get through this or any other crisis.

What Can you do?  

• Download "Helping Children Cope with a Crisis." Handout.

• Request "PTSD - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (info)"

(See the Lock Out Violence Everyday Campaign - A community violence prevention program).

(See SCHOOL SAFETY SITE ASSESSMENT).  

To Learn How "Keys To Safer Schools" Can Help.

Needing Expert Advice about Your Child

Learning what to look for - "Early Warning Signs"

Map of School Shootings

Learn about National Reports on Violence

If you have any comments or questions please Email us at keys@keystosaferschools.com.