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A message from NRP’s school counsellor Ms. Botic

Dear Families,

Children often hear about difficult events through conversations, social media, or from peers at school. As a result, they may come home with questions or feelings they are still trying to understand. News of this nature can bring up sadness, worry, confusion, or even fear. During times like these, children benefit most from calm reassurance and the steady presence of caring adults.

A helpful resource for families is:

On the News: Our First Talk About Tragedy by Dr. Jillian Roberts 

• Explains what a tragedy is in a gentle, age-appropriate way
• Supports children in naming and understanding their feelings
• Emphasizes the importance of helpers and trusted adults
• Available at the Vancouver Public Library

Ways you can support your child at home:

• Listen and validate their feelings
• Offer simple, honest, and age-appropriate explanations
• Limit repeated exposure to news coverage
• Reassure them that they are safe, secure, and supported

Fred Rogers shared comforting advice during difficult times:

“When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’”

Pointing out helpers first responders, community members, teachers, and family can help children feel secure and safe.

We will continue to support students at school in a calm and reassuring way so that they receive consistent messages about safety, emotional well-being, and the presence of caring adults.

Additional Support Resources in British Columbia:

• Kids Help Phone – Confidential counselling and support for young people across Canada.
  • Call: 1-800-668-6868 (24/7, free)
  • Text: CONNECT to 686868
  • Online chat available
• BC Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789
• Foundry BC – A hub for support services and information for young people including mental, physical, and sexual health supports, as well as phone and online chat options.
• KUU-US Crisis Line Society – Based in Port Alberni, providing 1-on-1 telephone support to Indigenous children, youth, adults, and Elders across BC.

Thank you for partnering with us to help your child feel safe, supported, and understood.

With care and compassion,
Ms. Botic

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Questions about PAC? Email us at nrppacchair@gmail.com