4 Elementary School–Aged Children 109
Support groups seem particularly helpful for school-age children.
Although these children increase their social connections, they seldom have
networks that include others who have experienced the same loss they have
unless they are overtly welcomed into a group. The opportunity to share
experiences helps children feel less isolated and ostracized. Support groups
also provide an opportunity for validation and shared problem solving with
peers, and offer professional support to help clarify misconceptions and draw
out supportive opportunities. Likewise, bereaved parents find the support of
other bereaved parents critical to coping.
Discussion Questions
- If you were working in an elementary school like Sandy Hook, where a
shooter came in to the school and killed several students as well as himself,
how would you guide the school to handle the first 24 to 48 hours? What
guidance would you have for the aftermath once students begin to return
to the school?
- How might you work with children who have recently moved to your
school who come from non–English-speaking countries and who translate
for their parents at school meetings?
- How could you explain to a school administrator why you believe some
students’ loss and trauma histories impact their academic work?
