Feeling Good As You Send Your Kids To School

Like so many of you, I watched the terrifying images of the events in Newtown, Connecticut over the weekend.   Like so many of you, I thought about all those affected by this tragedy.  And like so many of you, I started to think about my loved ones and my community.

As the weekend draws to a close, I think about my own Monday Morning, walking through the door of the elementary school where I work (one of 6 elementary and high schools) where I provide counselling and support to students, staff, teachers and families.  On Monday morning I will think about all of the students that will walk into their schools with the expectation that they will be safe

For parents, there will likely be some fear and anxiety as you get your children ready for school on Monday morning.   And if your kids know about the incident on Friday, they will likely be a little anxious themselves.

Here are my 6 ½  tips for getting your kids through the door of their school on Monday morning so that parents and children feel safe.

1. Validate Their Anxieties – If they are scared or nervous to go to school, tell them that you understand and ask what you can do to help them feel more comfortable.

2. But Don’t Let Them See Yours – If you are more scared than they are, they will pick up on that and it may escalate their feelings.

3. The School Is Your Friend – If they are really nervous, call the school, explain the situation and ask them for support.

4. Don’t Bring It Up Unless They Do – Kids spend a lot of time thinking about themselves, even the sensitive and caring ones.  The morning before school is often spent thinking about the day ahead – not reflecting on the news of the weekend.

5. Monitor The Media – Like above, if you can keep it from them while they are getting ready, they are less likely to think about it.

6. Take That Extra Moment – Even if your kids don’t know why, give them a hug and a kiss, write a note and leave it in their lunch, send an extra special text message.  It will make everyone feel good.

6 ½. Say I Love You.