Welcome to the Special Services Department
Richard Beck, Ph.D., Director of Special Services
District Homeless Liaison
[email protected]
Ruth Lawton
Secretary to the Director of Special Services
[email protected]
CHILD STUDY TEAM
Phone: 732-946-0055 x 4124
Helping Children Deal with Trauma
Our children and families have certainly experienced an extraordinary number of traumatic events over the last few months. As parents and professionals we struggle to put this all into perspective so that we can deal with it and continue on with the many demands in our daily lives. Children may have a more difficult time than we do in expressing their fear, anger or confusion over events that occur where they have little or no control. The following are some common behaviors that children make exhibit after a traumatic event:
* Avoidance
* Separation anxiety
* Nervousness
* Sleep problems
* Irritability
* Poor concentration
* Easily startled
* Crying
* Worry and anxiety about loved ones and the future
* Appetite changes
* Disorganized behavior
If your child has questions, it is important to answer them as honestly and clearly as possible. Encourage your children to express their feelings. It is highly recommended to limit your child's exposure to the media coverage of the tragedy, as small children will often believe that the event is happening over and over again, rather than it being a replay. Share with your children that this is an unusual event. Our schools have plans in place to protect students and teachers and that is why we have practice drills. Validating feelings and easing concerns will help, yet we need to ensure that we do not create any undue fear or anxiety in our children as well. Please do not hesitate to ask for support. We have well-trained clinical staff in the district and are always here for support, consultation and intervention.