Our thoughts and prayers go out
tonight to the many families in Newtown, Connecticut who are dealing with the
terrifying events that happened today. I know this area of
Connecticut well having family that live in the state. These events are very
close to home. I imagine that like me you gave your young children a big
hug when arriving home today.
Senseless violence is very difficult
for adults to understand and even more the case for young children. One
of the best things we can do for our children this weekend is maintain a normal
routine and follow our regular family structure. Children love having
structure and being around friends and family. When we provide
structure, we help children to not worry and lessen the chance of anxiety.
Furthermore, structure promotes physical health through regularly
scheduled sleep, exercise and meals. It is important that adults don’t
show our anxiety about the events and stress that violence is never a solution
to a problem.
My wife and I are
doing a media blackout for our two young daughters this weekend. The
limiting of television viewing is helpful for all children and particularly
will be helpful this weekend.
If children do gain access to
information about the tragedy in Connecticut, it is vital to have conversations
as these events can quickly be misunderstood and anxiety producing in young
children. In such cases it is critical to monitor children’s emotional
state. During times of tragedy it
is very important that we reassure children they are safe. If children
ask questions, it is helpful to have answers that are simple and brief.
If your children become aware of this
tragedy and have concerns, please let them know that they are safe at Pine Glen
Elementary School in Burlington, MA. Please let them know that Mr. Lyons
and their teacher(s) will keep them safe. If you feel that your child
needs more reassurance, our guidance counselor, Ms. May, school psychologist,
Ms. Garneau and I will be available to meet with him/her on Monday to talk
about how hard we work to make our school a safe environment for life-long
learning.
John Lyons, M.S.
Ed.
Principal
Pine Glen Elementary School
