Supporting Children & Adults with Special Needs During Traumatic Events

This has been a horrific week for the people of Massachusetts. Terrorism as so many others know across the country and the world, is a senseless act of violence directed upon the innocent. It is very important to tend to the emotional needs of everyone, including yourselves in all of this. Recovery is slow and set backs often occur at the most unexpected times. For children with or without special needs, it is particularly difficult to manage all of the emotions associated with these events. It is essential that we make sure supports are available. Keeping a routine, providing items which typically provide comfort and being very sensitive to changes in behavior and emotions will be critical. Consider carefully how you speak about events and do not have adult conversations within earshot. Manage the media across all modes (internet, television, print, radio etc..). Never assume that the lack of an obvious reaction means someone is managing. Provide creative activities for exploration of feelings including movement, art, music and dance. Healing takes time. I have included some resources which may be helpful. Take it moment by moment.

http://psychcentral.com/lib/2012/parenting-after-traumatic-events-ways-to-support-children/

http://csmh.umaryland.edu/Resources/OtherResources/ListofTraumaResources2.14.pdf

http://helpguide.org/mental/disaster_recovery_trauma_stress_coping.htm

http://www.massadvocates.org/download-book.php

http://www.samhsa.gov/dtac/dbhis/dbhis_children_bib.asp

http://www.aboutourkids.org/articles/helping_children_developmental_disabilities_cope_traumatic_events