Resources: Links for discussions on school violence, trauma, World events

As a Region, we respect each family’s decision to decide how to best address news with your children. 

As a staff, we do not want to introduce new information to students who may not be aware of the violent events. It is important that students process their emotions with an adult who can guide them through the confusion and fear they are experiencing. While our staff is available and ready to have discussions with any student in need, our administrators will work within their buildings to provide age-appropriate avenues should students need support.

The following resources may be helpful in having conversations with students, families, and staff about the 

How to Talk to Your Children About Conflict and War: This publication from UNICEF offers specific tips for families to support and comfort their children.

Resilience in a time of war: Tips for parents and teachers of elementary school children: This article from the American Psychological Association can help adults effectively navigate these issues with young children.

As a reminder, adult and child Mobile Crisis Intervention Services can be accessed by school staff and families by dialing the United Way 2-1-1 Infoline. Additionally, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) has recently launched Urgent Crisis Centers in four locations around Connecticut that are available for families whose children may need additional behavioral health support.

Below are resources that provide some thoughts and talking points on how to talk with children about school violence. Please review the links and reach out to your student’s counselor if we can provide additional support. 

From the American Psychological Association: How to Talk to Children about Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers

The National Child Traumatic Stress Services: School Shooting Resources

Sesame Street in the Community

Common Sense Media: How to talk to kids about school shootings

All our schools participate in a variety of anti-violence, empathy, and peer support programs. Our students are often the first to witness mean behaviors in less supervised spaces, on social media, or extra-curricular activities. Encourage them to speak to trusted adults before situations escalate. If they see or hear threats of violence, reach out to school administrators or our local police departments.