This week, MSPCS students and staff finally returned to school after delays caused by Hurricane Irma. More than just a place to learn, schools and teachers help children cope with events such as this by providing routine, stability, and support.
Once the cleanup was done, it was time to open our doors and welcome students back. In an effort to help the students move forward in a positive light from this event, we asked that parents limit their conversations about storm damages in front of the students while on campus. This small gesture allowed children to begin to refocus. Teachers were armed with strategies to help students by acknowledging their feelings, but focusing on positive experiences the students may have had during the time away from school.
RESOURCES:
This resource below was shared with our teachers:
Florida Teachers: Beware of Post-Hurricane Stress in Students
Below are a few resources to help parents respond to questions or concerns their children may have about the storm and its aftermath.
The Florida State University Center for Prevention & Early Intervention Policy
Zero to Three: Coping After a Natural Disaster
Reassuring Your Child After the Storm
My door is always open.
Catherine
