In the wake of the recent terrorist attacks, people across the country are faced with the challenge of moving on. However, moving on should not be confused with forgetting children.
From the start of the disaster to where the country stands today, there has been one constant problem. Who should be talking about it and how long should these discussions continue?
There is not anyone who can provide a straight-forward answer for this problem, and each person must decide what is right for them. Still, it must be realized that while weeks have passed since the attacks, it is important that many people continue to take the time to talk about it. Parents and teachers have an obligation to talk to their children and students about the events and emotions involved in something that no one should ever forget.
No one can say exactly what is appropriate to tell a child, and parents are struggling for an answer. First and foremost, it is crucial that parents take the time to sit down and talk to their children. Parents need to be asking about their child’s day everyday, but right now they also need to ask what their child is hearing in their classrooms or what their friends are telling them at recess.
It is imperative to realize that children do not always understand what “terrorism” is and they need an explanation on a level that they can understand. They also need to explain that while bad things have happened, there is no reason for children to be afraid.
Some children may not realize the pictures they see are the same two buildings falling to the ground, instead of more buildings. If nothing else, turn the television off so that they are not continuously watching the attacks and have a discussion that is not led by a journalist. The little things in this situation cannot be overlooked, or children will have no option but to be afraid.
The emotions involved are an issue of their own. Children may not be realizing why people are crying and for any child, the sight of seeing their mom or dad cry is very frightening.
Parents must explain that it is ok to feel sad and alright to cry because people dying (even strangers) is a very sad thing. They also should explain that children should not be afraid of airplanes or foreign people. These are things not being talked about in classrooms and if parents are not talking, there is no way their children are hearing them. Young children are not the only ones in need. Students from grade school through college are sitting in classrooms and they deserve to have an explanation.
Schools must come together and decide what is appropriate for each grade level.
Everyone must be in agreement so that the students can be on the same level and parents can have a clear understanding of what information is being given to their child.
Not to talk about the events in New York and Washington, D.C., completely is neglecting the opportunity for students of any age to learn. Something historic has happened, and it is now a part of all American’s lives. If no one is talking about it, there will not be an understanding of the history that these students have been a part of.
It has been nearly three weeks since the events, but explanations will be necessary for years to come.