REAFFIRM SAFETY

• Emphasize that schools are very safe.

• Let children speak about their feelings and validate reactions to the event.

• Support the appropriate expression of their feelings and help to put them in perspective.

REVIEW SAFETY PROCEDURES

• Help children identify an adult at school and in the community that they can go to if they feel threatened or at risk.

• Review procedures and safeguards in school and home settings.

MAINTAIN A NORMAL ROUTINE

• Keep a regular schedule and healthy nutrition, sleep and exercise to promote physical and mental health.

• Encourage maintenance of school work and extracurricular activities but do not push children who seem overwhelmed.

• Limit exposure to images or graphic reference to the event (e.g., TV and social media).

MAKE TIME TO TALK

• Let children’s questions guide the information provided.

• Be patient and look for clues that a child wants to talk.

• Young children may need concrete activities (e.g., imaginative play) while some older children may prefer writing or playing music.
  

MONITOR EMOTIONAL STATE

• Some children will not express themselves verbally but changes in behavior, appetite, or sleep patterns can indicate anxiety or stress.

• Seek help from a mental health professional for those with more intense reactions that last more than 2 weeks.