Caring for Our Community

Mrs. Traci Haly, CBA School Counselor

It can be challenging for all of us to process the emotions that come with news of recent national and world events. Those feelings are further heightened when the news hits close to home, as in yesterday’s tragic event at ODU. We are deeply saddened by the trauma that has been experienced by so many in our community. As difficult as these circumstances are for us, as adults, to process, children especially can be deeply impacted by news of this nature. It leaves us wondering how we can help.

Here are some recommendations for parents from the American Psychological Association (APA) to help your children process upsetting events:

• Limit media exposure and monitor your child’s online access to information.
• Be a calm role model by managing your own distress to create a secure, stable environment.
• Follow your child’s lead to guide and foster open dialogue. Correct any misconceptions they might have without providing unnecessary, frightening details.
• Validate and normalize their feelings of fear or sadness.
• Reassure them of their safety. Highlight the safety measures that are in place and focus on the “helpers” like the first responders and other emergency personnel.
• Maintain routines such as bedtime and meals to provide a sense of predictability.

As always, I am here to provide support and a quiet space for students who may need to talk, reflect, or take a break. Click here to for additional resources on how to talk to children about difficult news, from the APA website.

Thank you for being great partners as we work together in support of our wonderful young people at CBA!