Lakeland Schools Offer Additional Support For Students

YORKTOWN, N.Y. - Lakeland Central schools will make psychologists and counselors available for any children in need of additional support in the wake of Friday's murders in Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., the district said in a statement.

The Lakeland Central School District offers suggestions for parents that are struggling to talk to their children about Friday's shooting in Newtown.
Photo Credit: *Brian Marschhauser*

by Brian Marschhauser

12/17/2012 11:00 a.m.

"Here in Lakeland we want to assure you that we consider safety our highest priority," the statement said. "Please know that we regularly review our procedures with local authorities to ensure that our schools continue to meet the highest safety standards. We are all dedicated to maintaining a safe school environment."

The district also offered suggestions for parents that are struggling to talk to their children about the shooting:

• "Parents/guardians should limit younger children's exposure to news or other media." • "Children, especially young children, should be kept to routines and adults should try to maintain routines to the extent possible." • "Allow students to express their feelings; it could be verbally, at play or through artistic means." • "Parents/guardians should validate their children's feelings." • "Parents/guardians should not force children to talk about this tragedy." • "Parents/guardians should be aware of their own feelings and how that could affect children. Try not to project your own anxieties on to children." • "Be aware of signs that children may be in distress: changes in behavior, anxiety, sleep problems, acting out."

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