Helping Kids Return To School After A Tragedy

As summer days turn into back-to-school, experts have some advice on a successful transition.  

This year some children could be worried about returning to the classroom after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy that left 17 dead on Valentine's Day.  Nova Southeastern University's Dr. Gene Cash says it's important to acknowledge your child's feelings.

"Tell them it's okay to feel that way and acknowledge your own feelings, but in the process of that acknowledgement, don't overreact.  If you yell, you scream, you break things, you hit people, you cry uncontrollably, you curse, that sets a bad example for kids," said Dr. Cash, Ph.D.

He says for preschool aged kids who aren't very verbal, it's a good idea to comfort and hold them until they feel more secure.  He also suggests reassuring your kids it's unlikely a school shooting could happen at their school and emphasize that schools are actually some of the safest places for kids. 

For more tips and advice, you can listen to the full interview with Dr. Cash.


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