Sandina
Unregistered User
(9/13/01 10:17 am) Reply
I hope this is helpful
PARENTING DURING A CRISIS<br><br><br>Our heart and prayers go out to all the families who have been affected by thissenseless act of violence.<br><br> The magnitude of this senseless act of violence has impacted the people of our nation as nothing before. As an adult I find it difficult to comprehend this horror. As a Social Worker in Child Protective Services, I can't help but think of all the children who are confused, hurt and overwhelmingly frightened by this tragedy. Our children have never experienced anything so horrific in their lives and may not know how to cope with disaster. It is my belief that very young children may have little or no comprehension of events that have shaken our nation and our lives. Because of their dependent nature however, young children are very sensitive to our own fears and confusion. <br><br>Hopefully these ideas might help parents cope with the emotions and behaviors of their young child(ren).<br><br>Small children sense any slight change in their daily routine. Stick to routine as much as possible. Understanding that children often sense our moods and react in their own way may help parents remain patient and loving.<br><br>Young children need to be removed from the barage of media coverage; turn your televison off, take them out to a park, take them to visit a friend or relative, engage them in activities that are comforting to them such as stories or songs at naps and bedtime.<br><br>Try to explain to your child in simplistic terms that "some mommies and daddies and children were hurt and it makes us sad".<br><br>Assure your child(ren) that it is a natural reaction to be sad at times like these. Let your child know that you will not be so sad that you can't protect them. <br><br> Parents,this is the time when you need family, friends and spiritual leaders the most. Lean on them. Talk and listen with them. Share your feelings with them. <br><br on't take your confusion, anger and hurt out on your children. You will have family, friends and strangers feeling the same way you do. Support each other.<br><br>If you find that you are unable to cope with the emotions you are feeling, ask for help. Call a relative or friend, your clergy or a crisis line.
Your post is insightful and I hope all who have children read it.
Being a Mother of three and living on a Military base that has gone into a war zone, having my childrens bus excorted by armed men home, was something else. At the entrance to our housing area that is secure with armed military men, takes a toll on all our kids. Amazing enough, they understand. Some were a little bit scared as their Fathers/Mothers who are military were overseas in Saudia Arabia, but with the right counseling, they were put at ease.
on't take your confusion, anger and hurt out on your children. You will have family, friends and strangers feeling the same way you do. Support each other.<br><br>If you find that you are unable to cope with the emotions you are feeling, ask for help. Call a relative or friend, your clergy or a crisis line.
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