Talk With Your Child About Safety

• Acknowledge that scary things can happen at school, but it’s not the norm. Explain that fears can be better dealt with by thoroughly understanding school safety measures that are in place to keep them safe.

• Review with your child the process they are to follow in cases of emergency. Review the procedures on a regular basis. Explain that during times of stress, he may not be able to think clearly, so he needs to understand the steps well. Reiterate that these processes are in place to keep them safe.

• Create a safety plan with your child. Help him identify at school a trusted adult at school he can talk to should he feel threatened. Also, make sure your child understand how to contact you or another trusted adult in an emergency. Remind your child that they can come to you anytime if you feel threatened.

Listen To Your Child

• Acknowledge that scary things can happen at school, but it’s not the norm. Explain that fears can be better dealt with by thoroughly understanding school safety measures that are in place to keep them safe.

• Review with your child the process they are to follow in cases of emergency. Review the procedures on a regular basis. Explain that during times of stress, he may not be able to think clearly, so he needs to understand the steps well. Reiterate that these processes are in place to keep them safe.

• Create a safety plan with your child. Help him identify at school a trusted adult at school he can talk to should he feel threatened. Also, make sure your child understand how to contact you or another trusted adult in an emergency. Remind your child that they can come to you anytime if you feel threatened.

Listen To Your Child

This sounds simple, right? But, it can be daunting as families go through the pace of everyday life. It doesn’t help that kids often talk about things in a roundabout way.

Sometimes, the more important the topic, the harder it is for kids to express it. So, as a parent, you must stop, listen, and ask questions. Make sure your kids understand no topic is off-limits.

Practice And Encourage Good Emotional Hygiene

• Talk to your child about their concerns and encourage them to express their feelings

• Validate their feelings. Never minimize their concerns

• Talk honestly about your own feelings regarding school violence

• Keep the dialogue going

Kids React Differently To School Violence

• Younger children may react to school violence by not wanting to attend school or participate in school-based activities

• Adolescents and teens may minimize their concerns. However, they may become argumentative, withdrawn or school performance may decline

Hey Kids! Tell Someone About Your Concerns, And [KEEP TALKING] Until Someone Listens!

• Possible (or real) threats are one of those occasions when the adage that “It’s better to be safe than sorry,” rings true.

• If you hear or see threats on social media or in person, immediately tell an adult. An adult can be a parent, teacher, law enforcement, or someone in the office.

• On social media, take a screenshot of any threatening messages. Again, immediately show these to an adult.

Hey Parents! We’re Talking To You!

We understand that every child is different. Every parent wants the best (and to think the best of their child.) But, sometimes (through no fault of anyone) kids need some extra help. Love your child enough to recognize troubling signs and make the effort to get your child the help he needs.

You can’t be expected to know everything, but be brave enough to take the extra step to access outside help. Has your child exhibited any of these behaviors? Do you (or your child) know anyone who does?

• Absence of age-appropriate anger control skills
• Agitation/Restlessness
• Artwork/writing that is bleak, violent, reflects isolation or anger
• Bullying (either the recipient or the offender)
• Carrying a weapon to school (any weapon)
• Cruelty to pets or other animals
• Involvement/interest in gangs
• Lack of energy, enthusiasm, or motivation
• Lack of interest or poor performance in school
• Misplaced jealousy
• Obsession with violent games and/or TV shows
• Persistent disregard for rules
• Talking constantly about violence or weapons
• Withdrawal from friends and activities

If you need to talk to someone, call 1-800-273-TALK or the Mental Health Association of Illinois: 312-368-9070

Never hesitate to contact your school if you have concerns or questions. Find out what resources are available through your school.