Student Services Resources

In an unpredictable world, we are often challenged to deal with news and events that are devastating or upsetting. When global or local incidents occur, The Benjamin School is prepared to help any students, teachers, or families who need help processing these events.

In addition to contacting your division’s Student Services team directly, we have collated the following resources that may help in a time of need:

Take The Lead

Remember that children take the lead from the significant adults in their lives, their parents being the most important. It is by our example that children learn healthy coping skills that will benefit them now and throughout their lives. You can help your children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security, by talking with them about their fears, and by validating their feelings.

Communicate Honestly

Establish open communication with your children and let them know it is acceptable to ask questions. Silence is not comforting. Begin by asking your children what they have heard so far and use that as a starting place. Clear up any misinformation. Be honest with them, but share only as much information as they are developmentally able to handle.

Offer Reassurance

Reassure your children that their feelings are okay, including feeling sad, afraid, worried, or angry. Listen and validate their feelings and assist them in expressing these appropriately. Share your own feelings with your children and the strategies you are using to cope with them, again keeping in mind the developmental appropriateness of your conversation.

Minimize Media Exposure

While basic information may be helpful, they do not benefit from graphic details or exposure to disturbing images and constant reporting.

Student Services Resources

Take The Lead

Communicate Honestly

Offer Reassurance

Minimize Media Exposure

Resources

Violence, Crime, and War

Natural Disasters

Media Consumption

Other Resources

Main Address & Lower/Middle School

Upper School