Sharon C. Peters, of Parents Helping Parents, had some advice for parents about what to say to children when sad and scary things happen. She lives on 11th Street and is responding to the death of the construction worker who died this week when the scaffolding he was standing on collapsed.
At Parents Helping Parents, located in Park Slope, Peters offers help to families facing transitions as well as those sorting through
everyday challenges.
According to Peters: "Practical suggestions help parents find solutions
to problems that have been hard to unravel at home. Parents get to talk
about what has or hasn’t worked for them and try new strategies to move
their families forward."
As a family coach, Peters give parents and children the tools
to deal with acute or ongoing issues in their lives. She is also the Family Issues consultant for Park Slope Parents where this list appeared.
I for one was always curious about that little storefront on President Street.
relaxing and comforting by letting the child choose the activities
you do together.
2. This is not the time to try and help a child with their
behavorial problems. it is a time to recover from a confusing and
traumatic incident. Temporarily suspend corrections and
adjustments, you will have plenty of time to try again when things
have returned to a more typical pace.
3. . Answer all of your child's questions and try and set up
conditions that will help them ask questions or talk through what
they experienced. Games can help this happen, but sit down talks
can also be useful. Remember your perspective and theirs might be
very different. Try to set up a ;way to hear theirs not yours be
dominant. Some children don't share what they are thinking, they
just like to be playing and close to family – that is a fine way
to recover from such an incident.
4. Reach out to other parents and families for support. Don't
stay isolated.
5. Get plenty of rest and good food. It can help ease tensions
and stress.
Sharon C. Peters
Parents Helping Parents
Dear Sharon,
What wonderful information you are offering to parents to help their children. I am an educator and a writer. My first children’s book, Ride to the Stars, could possibly help along these lines. If you would care to email me, I would be honored.
Sincerely,
Suzie Courtney