The recent spate of tragedies around the world raises many questions for parents. How much do we share with our children? What is the media exposing them to? Should we answer their queries? Do they really need to know what happened? We asked MARK PETTERSON, Senior Years Counsellor and Experiential Learning Coordinator at GEMS World Academy (Singapore), for some commonsense advice.
How can we explain the concepts behind tragic events simply and without predjudice?
For many, this is a judgement call, and it will usually depend upon the child’s age, emotional stability, resilience, and also the comfort level of the parent involved. Recent events such as the Manchester bombing are highly distressing, but they also provide us all with a timely reminder that tragedy can occur anywhere and at any time.
Many parents generally prefer to avoid the subject completely in the hope that their children may not pick up on these tragedies at all. However, with the significant media coverage that these events receive, it’s highly likely that your children will hear about them from other sources – the internet, social media or friends, for example. You then run the risk of having your child hear an even more sensationalised version of a tragedy.
Be prepared for your child to ask questions that may test your understanding of the events. It’s important that parents are informed so that they know how to best answer the question: “Why did it happen?” Again, you should prepare for your child to be exposed to various interpretations of the event, particularly if they attend an international school where there is a mixed population of nationalities and cultural groups. This is something that we have to both understand and accept.
Bu hikaye EL Singapore dergisinin August 2017 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye EL Singapore dergisinin August 2017 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
6 Ways To A Super Smile!
Aesthete Smilestudio has an experienced team of dentists who provide a comprehensive range of services that meet the individual needs of each patient. Here's their advice on how to achieve an amazing smile - and the health benefits that can follow.
Pain and Shine
It was the usual Singaporean day, with a bright, sunny sky and not a cloud in sight. And, also in typical fashion, the world suddenly turned dark as the heavens opened.
SuccessTUT Yet Stressed?
How are you, really? According to a study by the Institute of Mental Health, one in seven people in Singapore has experienced a mental disorder in their lifetime.
Empowering amily & Child
As parents and caregivers diligently seek out therapeutic care for a child, they too may need support. DR BRIAN and CHLOE BENJAMIN of Benjamin Psychological & Therapeutic Services (Benjamin PTS) share how both parents and children can thrive.
CARING FOR A CURVED SPINE
Physiotherapist HAN YEN has a special interest in helping people who suffer from scoliosis. Here she tells us more about the symptoms, causes and treatments she uses to ease the condition.
Why We Love This Holland V Salon
Holland Village is dotted with great salons, but The Hair Lounge stands out for offering not only super chic haircuts and colour but top-notch service that turns every visit into a treat. In fact, some of us here at EL have been going there for years!
A Spa scape
If you love to unwind with some pampering in a luxurious spa, this one could be for you! We head to one of our favourites here in Singapore.
Lookin' Sharp!
Gents, up your suave factor with a perfectly fitted bespoke suit from one of these four top tailors in Singapore. There's something for the ladies too!
Looking for a Push Present?
Buying jewellery as a push present has become popular recently. These gifts, often given by partners to new mums, are tokens of appreciation and reminders of the journey of bringing new life into the world.
East Coast Chic
With its green parks, glistening water and charming cafés, Singapore's East Coast is all about laidback tropical vibes. Here, KARA BENSLEY of Joo Chiat boutique The Wyld Shop styles two fabulous outfits-of-theday (OOTD) that will see you through exploring the best spots in the neighbourhood - and all around Singapore - in style!