Crisis in the Middle East + Resources
This weekend, we have been following the tragic reports of the crisis unfolding in the Middle East. Children, youth and adults may experience a range of emotions when they hear about or see images and videos from these deeply upsetting events. We imagine this news to also be particularly challenging for our Jewish, Palestinian and Israeli students, staff and families and our thoughts are with them.
I wanted to reach out to share available supports, should you find them of use.
Adults play a key role in helping children make sense of the world and feel safe. Having conversations can help. The resources we are sharing have been designed to help families with strategies for having conversations with children and teens about the troubling events they hear about online, in conversation with classmates, through social media and even traditional media outlets.
- Common Sense Media gathers tips and conversation starters to help you talk to kids of different ages about the toughest topics.
- : This article from the American Psychological Association can help adults guide their young children beyond fear and to resilience.
- : The American Psychological Association breaks out tips and strategies for parents and teachers of middle school-aged children.
- : Provides resources that can be filtered by topic or keyword and by audience with a focus on how adults can identify traumatic responses in young people and how to support them.
If you're concerned about how your child is doing, our school counsellors are always available to support anyone coping with deep emotions. Additionally, there is help in our community.
Mental Health and Wellness Resources
- START: 1-844-START1
- | Phone: 1-800-668-6868,
- Fraser Health Crisis Line: 604-951-8855 or 1-877-820-7444 (toll-free)
- | Phone: 1-800-588-8717
Counselling Support and Information
Individuals will be impacted differently based on their lived experiences, and we know that some students and staff may need extra support in the days and weeks ahead. We will continue to support and prioritize the mental health and well-being of students, their families, teachers and staff.
Sincerely,
Sean Nosek
Superintendent of Schools / CEO