Today, I am writing because I am forced to stay home. Today, my students were stripped of their right to an education. Tomorrow, I will greet twenty pairs of eyes bursting with questions, eager for answers. As educators and parents, we are in a unique position where we need to answer the tough questions without fully understanding the answers. Today many Los Angeles Unified teachers and parents will have these conversations, and we all ask ourselves, “How do I remain strong for my children?“
- Listen– Show your children you care about their feelings by listening to their questions and validating their concerns. Children need to be heard, and they always find a way. Simply recall the last Target check-out tantrum as a reminder (we’ve all been there).
- Reassure- There are always people in the world full of hate and negativity, but how we respond is what separates us from them. We must not live our lives in fear, but take precautions. Explain to your child that a school shut down is a precaution to protect all students and teachers, and adults will do everything possible to ensure their safety. Remind them that school is a safe place and try to maintain your routines as much as possible. Give lots of hugs, and if possible participate in an activity together to further reassure your child that they are safe. Did I hear “ice cream???”
- Discuss- Open the discussion and be honest. We want to protect our children, but not at the expense of honesty. Remember your child will hear many rumors and discussion from peers and social media sources, but you always want to be the most credible source. If your child is younger, you know how much information to divulge. Follow your gut and if it feels right, it probably is.
- Relate- Explain to your child how feelings are part of the human experience, and we all have them. Their feelings may range from fear and confusion, to excitement for a day off school. These are all valid feelings and we all share them at one time or another. We should never feel ashamed by how we feel, ever.
- Change the Conversation- Yes, there are people in the world who want to hurt others and create chaos, but we must not let them win. Use this opportunity to discuss how we can make a positive change in the world. Use your day off to volunteer at an animal shelter, visit with grandma, or share happy moments with loved ones.
“It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.”- Eleanor Roosevelt
*I am merely a teacher sharing my insights and experience with parents and educators. If your child is having difficulty coping, or you feel your child’s behavior and sleeping habits are suffering, please seek help from a professional.