While most people are now on summer break, spending days at the pool, parks and going on vacation, family members of the two teachers and 19 children who were killed in the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas are struggling with the grief and pain of losing their loved ones.
However, the tragedy that occurred has impacted all of us, including our children, who might have heard about what happen from not only their parents, but from friends and social media platforms.
It may seem we should all be well-equipped for the changing world events due to the pandemic years, but we are not. In fact, as a parent, I was at a loss for words when my 13-year-old and 15-year-old asked questions after they learned about the shooting in Uvalde.
Dr. Kate Eshleman, pediatric psychologist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, says it’s less common for kids to hear about other kids dying.
“There’s a variety of reactions,” she says. “A lot depends on the child, some may be a matter-of-fact, acknowledge it’s sad, while others experience anxiety or fear of being safe.”
She suggests meeting your child where they are (developmentally) as each have different coping styles.
For parents, we are more closely connected with these tragic events, each of us having our own feelings as well as questions about the safety and well-being for our kids and family.
“I think it’s very appropriate if something happens for parents to identify their own feelings,” Eshleman says. “Show (your kids) how you cope with (feelings of sadness) and model appropriate coping.”
As we go through this summer, it’s a reminder to have check-ins with your child.
She suggests having a good idea of what content they are watching, ask specific questions about popular posts and try to engage them in a conversation.
“Periodically check in and ask them if anything has been worrying them, did anything good happen, make these questions a regular part of the family conversation,” she adds.
It’s not just kids who need support, but also us, as parents.
The season allows us to reset and take a few minutes for our mental health.
Eshleman suggests parents to take time to work out, check in with friends — and for kids, if sadness shows up the door, find activities, like having an ice cream night, go to a playground or movie.
“Engaging in a fun activity is a good approach,” she says and notes, to always watch for changes, in your child (or yourself). If there’s a change in patterns or increasing irritability, to investigate further and get help, if needed.
In this issue, we tried to do just that — and provide ideas on how to have fun together, finally.
So, hug your kids a little tighter, and everyone you love.
Editor’s Extras: We are so excited to show you the winners and finalists of your picks for 2022 Parent Choice Awards. Thank you to our readers who participated in the voting fun!
This editor’s column was published in the print edition of the June/July issue.
