Many educators struggle to find ways to talk with young people about upsetting events that happen in the news.
The recent mass shootings have shaken us at a time when we were already grappling with a continuing pandemic and increased violence both here and abroad.
It may be tempting to avoid bringing up upsetting news with your students. But if it’s on their minds, giving students a chance to share their thoughts and feelings can provide comfort in the moment, let students know they are not alone, and help build a supportive community in the long term. Self-care and community care are also a priority after upsetting events.
In this PDF, we offer a collection of activities and guidelines to help you discuss what is happening and provide individual and collective support for students and adults in the wake of tragic events.
View the PDF contents online:
- Discussing Tragic Events in the News
- Suggestions for Discussing Violent Events in the News
- 5 Tips for Teaching Current Events to Younger Students
- Looking for the Good during Challenging Times
- Two Quick Techniques for Calming Down
- Teaching Self-Care for Grades K-2: Music
- Teaching Self-Care for Grades 3-5: Music
- Teaching Self-Care for Middle & High School: Music
- Crafty Self-Care for You & Your Students
- Self-care for Educators & Caregivers