Equity Umbrella Podcast
Special Episode Strategies to Cope after a Mass Shooting
Episode Summary
We (Sharon & Yvette) had originally planned to record about the importance of SEL but as educators we can’t ignore the weight of another mass school shooting & that SEL is a crucial component of how we build resiliency for ourselves and our school community. We invited our colleague, Evelyn Diaz, MTSS Advisor to suggest a few strategies to help us and our students cope with trauma.
Episode Notes
Resources
Check-in Questions:
- How are you feeling given current circumstances?
- How are you planning to care for yourself… (in the face of continued news, responsibilities you think about as a teacher,.. as you continue your work in supporting schools)? >>> modeling for students
Best practice for conducting check-ins:
- Being intentional about designing questions and think about when and how you would like to ask and allow students to respond
- Recommend: collaborate with colleagues
- Teach expectations for how students can respond
- Prepare to share resources with students at the end of check-in -- to receive further mental support such as counseling
Children's Hospital LA Guide for Talking to children about terrorist attacks and school and community shootings in the news
Suggestions for talking to your children from LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho:
Families, it is difficult but necessary to talk to your children about this devastating massacre. Please consider the following suggestions:
- Have conversations with your children about any worries and concerns they may have as a first step to help them feel safe and begin to cope with tragic or disturbing events.
- Check in with your children and monitor for any signs of fear or stress.
- Monitor conversations. Children may overhear conversations and could “fill in the gaps,” which can lead to further stress.
- Be present for your children. Provide extra time, attention and patience (an extra hug or a few encouraging words will go a long way).
- Seek professional help if you or your children are feeling overwhelmed.