Columbia Schools Offer Help in Talking With Kids
COLUMBIA - In wake of Friday's school shooting in Newton, Conn., Columbia Public Schools are offering suggestions on how to talk with your kids about the tragic events.
In an e-mail sent to parents obtained by KOMU 8, the district encouraged parents to be especially sensitive and be prepared to offer support to their kids. The e-mail also told parents they may notice behavior changes in their child such as nervous behavior, trouble concentrating and a fear of being alone.
Here are some of the suggestions from Columbia Public Schools:
- Children do not need to know everything about a violent situation to come to some understanding about it.
- Be sensitive to your child's questions.
- Permit your child to talk about his or her feelings.
- Show your understanding and caring when sharing news about this event with your child.
- Talk at your child's eye level. Touch or hold your child when appropriate as hugs and sitting close can say a lot.
Below is a look at the full e-mail sent out to Columbia Public School parents Friday afternoon: