- **Q: Why is it important to prioritize emotional well-being during back-to-school?
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Parenting / Back To School
As kids head back to school, Nicole Hockley, a mom who lost her son in the Sandy Hook tragedy, stresses the importance of prioritizing their emotional well-being. She offers five crucial conversation starters for parents to help their child...
Nicole Hockley of Sandy Hook Promise highlights the significance of open communication and emotional support as children transition back to school. Her recommendations stem from personal experience and a commitment to preventing future violence by fostering emotionally supportive communities.
1. **Give Them Breathing Space After School:** - Kids need time to unwind after a long day of sensory overload. - A simple “feelings check-in” on a one-to-five scale can help kids share their experiences without pressure. - Letting your child choose how they want to decompress gives them agency and helps build strong emotional regulation.
2. **Be an Empathetic Guide in Their Digital World:** - Talk with kids about what they are seeing online, who they follow, and how the content makes them feel. - Share meaningful and uplifting content.
3. **Build Their Confidence in Social Situations:** - Instill the confidence to be an upstander instead of a bystander. - Practice easy ways to create connection, belonging, and help someone. - Simple phrases like “That’s not OK” or “Want to sit with us?” can make a difference.
4. **Help Them Name Their Trusted Adult:** - Every child needs a trusted adult they can turn to. - Ask them, “Who do you feel safe talking to if something’s bothering you?”
5. **Create Moments of Belonging Through Kindness:** - Kindness starts with “hello,” a smile, inviting someone to sit at your lunch table, or asking a classmate how their day is going. - These “everyday acts of kindness” may seem small, but they have a huge impact.
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Do you think these conversations will make a difference in your child's school year? Let us know!
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