Children and Memories:
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Talk and Listen
- Think about how you will talk with your child about your
own feelings regarding the anniversary. It is okay to share
with your child that you feel sad. This shows your child
that it is okay to talk about his feelings. However, young
children can become distressed if their parents seem worried
or anxious, so talk about your own fears or worries with
friends, family members, or a professional, rather than your
child. Reassure your child that you will always try to keep
him safe.
- Talk openly and honestly while keeping in mind your
child's age and level of development.
Young children, especially, can be frightened by too many details. Use language your child can understand. Talk with each child individually, if possible. This helps to meet different needs for information and keeps any one child from taking over the conversation.
- Take your time.
Listen when your child seems interested in talking, letting her finish her thoughts and sentences. It may be tempting to finish them for her, but hearing all that she has to say shows that you value her thoughts and feelings. If you are too busy to give your child your full attention, set a time when you can talk and listen comfortably-and keep the appointment.
Be Involved - Limit TV Watching
If you watch TV:
- Plan in advance the programs that will be watched.
Planning ahead gives you time to decide whether programs are
in your child's best interest. It also gives you a chance to
plan your family's schedules so that you can watch adult
programs, such as the news, without your child.
- Choose programs that are healthy and fun for your
family. Think about your child's age and level of
development. Avoid programs with violent or adult content.
- Talk with your child about what he sees. Not only will
this help you connect with your child, but it will also be a
chance to clear up confusing information. Talk about your
values with your child. How do the messages in the programs
compare with the values you want your child to learn?
Connect With Your Family
News stories and media programming will continue to remind us of the events of September 11, 2001. Use this as an opportunity for your family to share things that are important to each of you. Connect with your family, and remember how valuable you are to each other.
If you would like to learn more about connecting with your
child, please contact ParentLink. 1-800-552-8522;
http://extension.missouri.edu/parentlink;
email:
parentlink@missouri.edu
Last update: Thursday, February 01, 2007
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