Security in schools: This is how parents support their children after the killing spree!

Security in schools: This is how parents support their children after the killing spree!

After the tragic killing spree in Graz, in which nine young people and a teacher lost their lives, the fear for security at schools in Vienna and all of Austria is felt. Parents and pupils are unsettled, and this concern is also clearly shown in the many calls that are received by MA 11- child and youth welfare. Press spokeswoman Ingrid Pöschmann reports on an increase in concerned parents who ask for advice and seek support. In this difficult time, communication between parents and children plays a crucial role.

Ingrid Pöschmann recommends that parents should primarily keep calm and convey security depending on the age of the children. It is important for kindergarten children that the topic is not actively addressed. If you express any questions, they should be answered in a child -friendly manner. The feeling of reliability is important for the smallest. It works a little differently in older children; Here parents should be open and consume serious media together with their offspring. This signaled parent -signaled that they are available for discussions at any time.

Understand fear and uncertainties

The experts advise not to trivialize or hide events such as amotlets. Especially for four to five-year-old children, it is better not to actively address difficult world events, since they can often not classify terms such as "amoclauf" or "bloody deed" correctly. Communication rules from educational science state that parents should remain in the language of the children. Openness and caution in the choice of words are required, especially if children express fears themselves.

For older children, it is important to talk authentically and honestly about violent problems. However, speculation about events should be avoided; It is important to concentrate on secure information. Common consuming current news can help, but here too it is advisable to take breaks from the reporting to process everything in peace.

emotional effects and support

After such events, temporary fears in front of school and sleep disorders can occur, which are often influenced by the local proximity to the incident. These symptoms usually sound themselves after a while. Some children feel more comfortable in such phases when they exchange ideas, while others may show a retreat tendency. Parents should understand that it is okay if a child does not want to go to school for a few days to process their fears.

The MA 11 and other service hotlines are ready to offer support. The following contact options can be reached in Vienna: MA 11 under 01/4000-8011, the psychosocial service on 01/31 330 and advice on wire under 147. In difficult moments there are no banal questions, and it is important that parents actively approach their children.

In addition, a healthy family time with activities such as walks or board games can help to alleviate stress and fears. Democracy has its challenges, but also the best opportunities to deal with each other through commitment and mindfulness. It is worth staying on it, because the support often comes exactly when you need it the most.

Further information on these topics can be found in the reports of Kurier . For tips on parent-child communication, also take a look at Parents knowledge .