In this era of terrorism, adults need to help children feel safe at a time when the world seems to be a more dangerous place. Parents and teachers in particular must help youngsters understand what is going on factually, how events do or do not impact their lives, and how to handle their emotional reactions.
The degree to which children are affected will vary depending on personal circumstances. Children who have suffered a personal loss from, or had firsthand exposure to, the terrorist attacks will be much more vulnerable.
Also at greater risk are children whose parents are in the military or in active duty in the reserve forces, and those children whose parents are involved in emergency response or public safety.
All children, however, are likely to be affected in some way during this difficult period in our history. For many, the guidance of caring adults will make the difference between being overwhelmed and developing life-long emotional and psychological coping skills.
Teachers and caretakers can help restore children’s sense of security by modeling calm and in-control behavior. It is crucial to provide opportunity for children to discuss their concerns and to help them separate real from imagined fears. It is also important to limit exposure to media coverage of violence.
Helping Children Cope With Loss, Death and Grief. This article from the National Association of School Psychologists provides tips for teachers and parents to help children deal with loss associated with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Link to their full library of resources for parents and teachers on crisis safety and support (some resources also available in Spanish, Farsi, Arabic, Chinese, Urdu, Korean and Vietnamese).
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- Emotional responses to troubling subjects, and
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