Highlights magazine recently published a guide for teachers detailing how they should approach the recent tornado outbreak and its consequences in their K-12 classrooms. The children's publication has released this book of tips in response to the many letters it has received from kids expressing their concerns about what they have seen on the news.
"Our readers write to us to help them understand these incidents or to share their grief," said Christine French Cully, the editor of Highlights. "We have found that certain feelings are universal, such as the need for stability and calm reassurance."
A tip that the magazine gives teachers in the guide is to be sure to listen to children's feelings and allow them to express their anxiety and sadness in a safe space. Teachers are also instructed to share their own feelings. This type of open discussion is reported to be especially helpful in early childhood and kindergarten classrooms.
Another piece of advice included in Highlights' guide is for teachers to engage their students in aid projects, which can get their mind off of their own grief and mobilize them into helping others. This may work especially well in older grades, such as high school.
