Violence

Sometimes, violence and the fear of it can feel overwhelming. In today's world reports of violence in the media, in our neighborhoods and even in our schools can make children feel frightened, unsafe and insecure. Even in such complex times, parents have the ability to raise healthy, confident, secure children who know how to resolve conflicts peacefully and make smart decisions to protect themselves.

While a lot of attention is paid to serious incidents of violence in school today, the reality is that most kids aren't facing guns in the classroom. Our kids do face bullies and teasing on a pretty regular basis and these can take their toll. Take a moment and remember the most obnoxious kid from your grade school. Now picture them by your side throughout your workday. Pretty annoying, huh? So how do we help our kids deal with this and other types of aggressive behavior? Children feel better when they realize they don't have to face their fears alone. Talking about it can offer an emotional release.

Want to learn about what to talk about when? Click here for some tips on talking to your kindergartener, elementary school-age child, and middle school student.

BREAKING THE ICE
Some questions to help get the conversation going …

Do you ever feel scared walking to school or at lunch?

How much teasing goes on in school?

Do you know the school rules about bullies and violence?