For Parents/Caregivers
Understand the Problem
Children’s exposure to violence or children as bystanders to violence is a relatively new area of concentration for researchers, clinicians, teachers, parents and in fact, all those who come into contact with children. Until recently, most efforts to understand violence and its impact have focused on the direct victims and perpetrators of violence.
Recognize the Signs
Research and clinical experience indicate that children who are exposed to violence are affected by the event. Many children will develop signs of psychological distress and can be affected in all arenas of development: emotional, social, and cognitive. Being aware of the symptoms and the developmental impact is a step towards advocacy and advancement in the treatment of children exposed to violence.
Help A Child
The stories that professionals and families hear about children exposed to violence are overwhelming at times and can create feelings of helplessness and hopelessness not unlike the feelings experienced by the children themselves. When these feelings emerge, it is important to remember that there are simple things that can be done to support children and to make an essential difference in their lives.
Children’s exposure to violence or children as bystanders to violence is a relatively new area of concentration for researchers, clinicians, teachers, parents and in fact, all those who come into contact with children. Until recently, most efforts to understand violence and its impact have focused on the direct victims and perpetrators of violence.
Recognize the Signs
Research and clinical experience indicate that children who are exposed to violence are affected by the event. Many children will develop signs of psychological distress and can be affected in all arenas of development: emotional, social, and cognitive. Being aware of the symptoms and the developmental impact is a step towards advocacy and advancement in the treatment of children exposed to violence.
Help A Child
The stories that professionals and families hear about children exposed to violence are overwhelming at times and can create feelings of helplessness and hopelessness not unlike the feelings experienced by the children themselves. When these feelings emerge, it is important to remember that there are simple things that can be done to support children and to make an essential difference in their lives.
Talking with Children after Mass Violence
All of us - children, caregivers, and communities - are struggling to make sense of another unfathomable act of violence. When these devastating events unfold, we can feel overwhelmed and at a loss for how to take care of ourselves and our children. Children and youth can be particularly impacted or frightened by news of violence in schools. As parents, caregivers, and community leaders, we can support children and youth as they cope.
Click here for more information to support you as you navigate this time with your loved ones.
All of us - children, caregivers, and communities - are struggling to make sense of another unfathomable act of violence. When these devastating events unfold, we can feel overwhelmed and at a loss for how to take care of ourselves and our children. Children and youth can be particularly impacted or frightened by news of violence in schools. As parents, caregivers, and community leaders, we can support children and youth as they cope.
Click here for more information to support you as you navigate this time with your loved ones.
