Special Episode Strategies to Cope after a Mass Shooting
Resources
Check-in Questions:
- How are you feeling given current circumstances?
- How are you planning to care for yourself… (in the face of continued news, responsibilities you think about as a teacher,.. as you continue your work in supporting schools)? >>> modeling for students
Best practice for conducting check-ins:
- Being intentional about designing questions and think about when and how you would like to ask and allow students to respond
- Recommend: collaborate with colleagues
- Teach expectations for how students can respond
- Prepare to share resources with students at the end of check-in -- to receive further mental support such as counseling
Suggestions for talking to your children from LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho:
Families, it is difficult but necessary to talk to your children about this devastating massacre. Please consider the following suggestions:
- Have conversations with your children about any worries and concerns they may have as a first step to help them feel safe and begin to cope with tragic or disturbing events.
- Check in with your children and monitor for any signs of fear or stress.
- Monitor conversations. Children may overhear conversations and could “fill in the gaps,” which can lead to further stress.
- Be present for your children. Provide extra time, attention and patience (an extra hug or a few encouraging words will go a long way).
- Seek professional help if you or your children are feeling overwhelmed.