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Social connection is a fundamental part of student wellbeing. While many students experience periods of solitude or prefer smaller social circles, ongoing social isolation can negatively affect emotional health, academic engagement, and a student’s sense of belonging at school. Educators and school staff are uniquely positioned to notice when a student is becoming disconnected and to help create opportunities for meaningful connection.

Contributing Factors

Social isolation occurs when a student has limited social connections or feels disconnected from peers, trusted adults, or their school community. Isolation may be temporary and situational, or it may develop over time due to factors such as:

• Difficulty making or maintaining friendships
• Bullying, exclusion, or peer conflict
• Frequent school moves or transitions
• Mental health challenges
• Cultural or language differences
• Chronic absenteeism
• Family or personal circumstances that limit social engagement

Signs of Social Isolation

School staff should look for patterns rather than isolated incidents. Recognizing these indicators early allows staff to provide support before isolation begins affecting a student’s overall wellbeing. Possible signs include:

• Spending significant time alone during breaks, lunch, or group activities
• Reluctance to participate in collaborative projects
• Difficulty forming or maintaining friendships
• Withdrawal from clubs, extracurricular activities, or previously enjoyed interests
• Frequent absenteeism or tardiness
• Increased sadness, irritability, anxiety, or low motivation
• Limited interaction with peers or adults
• Expressions of feeling left out, unwanted, or disconnected

Prevention and Intervention Methods

1. Build positive relationships.

Simple interactions can have a significant impact. Greeting students by name, checking in regularly, and showing genuine interest in their experiences helps strengthen trust and connection.

2. Encourage inclusive practices.

Create opportunities for students to interact with a variety of peers. Thoughtful grouping, cooperative learning activities, peer mentorship programs, and inclusive extracurricular opportunities can help students expand their social networks.

3. Monitor peer dynamics.

Pay attention to students who are consistently left out during activities or social situations. Address exclusionary behavior promptly and reinforce expectations for kindness and respect.

4. Celebrate student strengths.

Students are more likely to feel connected when their contributions are recognized. Highlight individual talents, interests, and achievements in ways that encourage participation and confidence.

5. Provide multiple pathways for connection.

Not every student connects in the same way. Offer a variety of activities, clubs, leadership opportunities, and interest-based groups so students can find environments where they feel comfortable and valued.

Supporting Students Who May Be Isolated

When concerns arise, approach students with empathy and curiosity rather than assumptions.

• Check in privately and respectfully.
• Ask open-ended questions about their school experience.
• Listen without judgment.
• Help identify activities, groups, or opportunities that align with their interests.
• Connect them with appropriate support services when needed.
• Collaborate with families and other support staff to better understand the student’s needs.

Try This!

Connection Check Challenge

Identify one student who seems less connected to peers or school activities. Make a point to have a brief positive conversation with them each day and help connect them to one activity, group, or peer interaction that matches their interests.

Small supportive actions often make a lasting difference. A welcoming conversation, invitation to participate, or regular check-in may be the first step toward a stronger sense of belonging.

Additional Resources

https://www.stopbullying.gov

https://www.search-institute.org

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Grief is a natural response to loss, but for children and adolescents, it can be especially difficult to understand and manage. Students may experience grief following the death of a family member, friend, classmate, or pet. By recognizing signs of grief and responding with empathy, schools can help students feel supported during challenging times.

Grief looks different for every student. Some students may openly express sadness, while others may appear angry, withdrawn, distracted, or unaffected. Reactions can vary based on age, developmental level, cultural background, previous experiences with loss, and available support systems.

It is important to remember that grief is not a problem to fix. Instead, it is an experience to support as students learn to cope with and adjust to loss.

Common Signs of Grief

While grief affects everyone differently, some common signs may include:

• Difficulty concentrating or completing assignments
• Changes in behavior or mood
• Increased irritability, frustration, or emotional outbursts
• Withdrawal from friends, activities, or classroom participation
• Increased anxiety or worries about safety and loved ones
• Fatigue or changes in energy levels
• Frequent absences or visits to the nurse’s office
• Expressions of sadness, guilt, confusion, or loneliness

Creating a Supportive School Environment

A caring and predictable school environment can provide an important source of stability for students experiencing grief. Educators can do several things to help create this environment.

Acknowledge the loss.

Students often benefit when trusted adults acknowledge what has happened rather than avoid the topic entirely. Simple statements such as, “I’m sorry for your loss,” or “I’m here if you need support,” can communicate care without putting pressure on the student to talk.

Maintain routines while providing flexibility.

Consistent routines help create a sense of security during times of uncertainty. At the same time, grieving students may need flexibility with assignments, participation expectations, or deadlines as they process their emotions.

Listen more than you speak.

Students may want to share memories, feelings, or concerns. Give them opportunities to talk while avoiding assumptions about how they should feel or how long their grief should last.

Provide opportunities for connection.

Grief can feel isolating. Encourage healthy peer relationships and ensure students remain connected to supportive adults and activities within the school community.

Respect individual and cultural differences.

Families and cultures may have different beliefs, traditions, and ways of expressing grief. Approach conversations with sensitivity and respect for each student’s unique experience.

Day-to-Day Support

All school staff can play a role in supporting grieving students. Educators can:

• Check in privately and periodically.
• Offer reassurance and emotional support.
• Be patient with changes in behavior or performance.
• Help students identify trusted adults they can turn to when needed.
• Communicate appropriately with families and support staff.
• Refer students to school counselors or mental health professionals when additional support is needed.

Students may not remember every lesson taught during a difficult season of life, but they often remember the adults who showed them kindness and understanding. When educators and school staff create safe, supportive environments, students are better equipped to navigate grief while maintaining a sense of connection and belonging.

Additional Resources

https://www.dougy.org

https://www.schoolcrisiscenter.org

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Gratitude is often thought of as simply saying “thank you,” but its impact can extend far beyond good manners. For students, cultivating gratitude can be a valuable tool for managing stress, building resilience, and fostering a greater sense of connection to their learning community.

For students navigating academic pressures, personal responsibilities, and life transitions, gratitude can serve as a protective factor that supports overall wellbeing.

Benefits of Gratitude

Practicing gratitude can positively influence several aspects of the student experience, including:

• Increased optimism and positive emotions
• Improved relationships with peers, faculty, and staff
• Greater resilience during stressful situations
• Enhanced sense of belonging and connection
• Reduced focus on negative experiences or setbacks
• Improved awareness of available support systems

While gratitude is not a solution to every challenge, it can help students identify strengths, recognize support networks, and develop coping strategies during difficult times.

Creating Opportunities for Gratitude

Educators can help foster gratitude throughout the school environment. Small, intentional practices can encourage students to reflect on positive experiences and connections.

Examples include:

• Encouraging reflection after successful projects or milestones
• Celebrating personal and academic achievements
• Providing opportunities for peer recognition
• Acknowledging student contributions and efforts
• Incorporating moments of reflection into meetings, classes, or programs

Try This!

Create a gratitude moment.

Start a meeting, class, tutoring session, advising appointment, or student event by inviting participants to reflect on one thing they are grateful for this week. Responses can be shared aloud, written on sticky notes, submitted anonymously, or added to a virtual discussion board.

This simple activity takes only a few minutes but can help students and educators pause, reflect on positive experiences, and strengthen their sense of connection with others.

Students are more likely to engage and persist when they feel connected to their school and the people around them. Gratitude can strengthen these connections by helping students recognize the support they receive from classmates, mentors, family members, and campus resources.

When gratitude becomes part of a school’s culture, it can contribute to a more positive and supportive community for everyone.

Additional Resources

https://www.constantloveandlearning.com/blog/powerful-year-round-gratitude-tools-to-benefit-educators-and-children

https://www.shraman.org/gratitude

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Food insecurity is a challenge that affects learners of all ages and backgrounds. Concerns about where their next meal will come from can create barriers to academic success, engagement, and overall well-being. Schools play an important role in helping create environments where students can access the resources they need to thrive.

Potential Indicators

Although every student’s experience is different, some common indicators may include:

• Frequent comments about being hungry or skipping meals
• Difficulty concentrating during class activities
• Fatigue, irritability, or low energy
• Increased absences or tardiness
• Concerns about financial hardship
• Hesitation to participate in activities involving food costs

Creating a Supportive Learning Environment

Students are more likely to seek assistance when they feel respected and supported. Educators can help by:

• Using inclusive language that acknowledges diverse life circumstances
• Avoiding assumptions about students’ access to food, transportation, or financial resources
• Sharing available campus or community resources regularly with all students
• Normalizing conversations about seeking support services
• Maintaining confidentiality when discussing personal circumstances

Connecting Students with Resources

One of the most impactful ways to support students is by becoming familiar with available resources. These may include:

• Campus food pantries
• Emergency assistance programs
• Meal voucher initiatives
• Community food banks
• Supplemental nutrition programs
• Student support and case management services
• Local nonprofit organizations

Try This!

Create a Quick-Access Resource Guide

Develop a resource guide in either print or digital format that can be easily shared with students when needs arise. Keep the guide updated and readily available so you can access it in just a few clicks.

Having resource information organized and accessible allows staff to respond quickly and confidently, reducing the need to search for information in the moment. This simple step can streamline the support process and help students connect with assistance more efficiently.

 

Supporting students experiencing food insecurity begins with empathy. Small actions, such as listening without judgment, providing flexible support when appropriate, and sharing resources, can make a meaningful difference. Students who feel seen and supported are more likely to remain engaged and connected to their educational journey.

By fostering awareness and building resource-rich learning environments, educators can help remove barriers that may otherwise prevent students from achieving their goals.

Additional Resources

https://www.feedingamerica.org

https://www.nokidhungry.org

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Stress is a normal part of life, but for many students, academic demands, social pressures, extracurricular commitments, family responsibilities, and uncertainty about the future can feel overwhelming. Educators can help students develop healthy ways to manage stress.

Student Indicators

When stress becomes chronic or excessive, it can affect students’ ability to learn, focus, solve problems, and build positive relationships. Students experiencing high stress may demonstrate behaviors such as:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased irritability or emotional outbursts
• Changes in attendance patterns
• Declining academic performance
• Withdrawal from peers or activities
• Physical complaints such as headaches or stomachaches

Practical Strategies

1. Create predictable and supportive environments.

Students often feel less anxious when they know what to expect. Consistent routines and clear communication help reduce uncertainty.

Examples:

• Post schedules and expectations where students can easily access them.
• Provide advance notice for changes whenever possible.
• Break larger assignments or projects into smaller, manageable steps.
• Offer reminders and checkpoints to help students stay organized.

2. Teach and model healthy coping skills.

Students learn by watching the adults around them. Demonstrating healthy stress management shows students practical ways to respond to challenges.

Tips:

• Talk about strategies you use to stay organized and manage stress.
• Encourage students to identify coping techniques that work for them.
• Normalize conversations about emotions and mental wellness.
• Reinforce that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

3. Incorporate brief mindfulness moments.

Mindfulness activities can help students reset, improve focus, and regulate emotions throughout the day.

Ideas include:

• One-minute breathing exercises
• Guided visualization activities
• Mindful stretching breaks
• Gratitude reflections
• Quiet moments before assessments or transitions

4. Encourage movement and brain breaks.

Physical activity can help reduce tension and improve mood. Even short periods of movement can increase engagement and concentration.

Examples:

• Stretching between lessons or meetings
• Walking discussions
• Classroom movement activities
• Brain breaks during longer instructional periods
• Opportunities for students to stand and move when appropriate

5. Foster positive relationships.

Students are more likely to share concerns when they feel connected to trusted adults.

Ways to build connections:

• Greet students by name.
• Check in regularly with students who seem overwhelmed.
• Celebrate effort and growth, not just achievement.
• Provide opportunities for students to share their thoughts and experiences.
• Listen without immediately trying to solve every problem.

6. Help students develop organizational skills.

Many students feel stressed because they struggle with time management and organization. Small organizational habits can prevent larger stressors from accumulating.

Support students by:

• Teaching planning and prioritization strategies.
• Using calendars, checklists, and visual reminders.
• Encouraging students to estimate how long tasks will take.
• Helping students create manageable goals.

7. Promote balance.

Students may feel pressure to excel in every area of their lives. School staff can reinforce the importance of balance and self-care.

Encourage students to:

• Get adequate sleep.
• Take breaks when needed.
• Engage in hobbies and interests.
• Spend time with supportive friends and family.
• Maintain realistic expectations for themselves.

Try This!

Start a daily or weekly “Stress Check-In.”

Choose a simple check-in routine that takes less than two minutes at the beginning of a day or class period.

Ask students to rate their stress level on a scale of 1 to 5 using:

• A digital form
• Sticky notes
• Color cards
• Hand signals
• A classroom chart

Use the information to identify patterns, provide support, or connect students with additional resources

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but students do not have to navigate it alone. By creating welcoming environments, teaching practical skills, and fostering meaningful connections, school staff can play a critical role in helping students manage stress and thrive both academically and personally.

Additional Resources

https://keltymentalhealth.ca/teaching-children-about-stress

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Building-Resilience/Pages/For-Teens-Creating-Your-Personal-Stress-Management-Plan.aspx

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Bullying not only affects the immediate well-being of students but also contributes to long-term challenges in school safety and climate if left unaddressed. By taking proactive steps in prevention, intervention, and ongoing support, educators can reduce harm, foster positive relationships, and build a school environment where every student feels safe, valued, and respected.

Since October is National Bullying Prevention Month, it is a great time to discuss bullying with students. The questions below can help begin these discussions.

• What does bullying look like to you?
• How do you think bullying makes someone feel?
• Why do you think people choose to bully?
• Who are adults that you trust to tell if you are being bullied?
• If you were being bullied, what would you want others to do to support you?
• What are some things we can do as a class or school to make everyone feel included?
• If you were being bullied, what would you want others to do to support you?

Bullying Prevention Methods

• Help students understand bullying – Discuss what bullying is and how to stand up to bullies safely. Make sure students know that bullying is unacceptable and how to get help.
• Promote open communication – Check in with students often, and listen to their needs. Provide times for students to bring up concerns.
• Encourage students to do what they love – Activities, interests, and clubs can boost a student’s confidence and help them make friends. This can help protect students from bullying behavior and isolation.
• Model how to treat others – Students may imitate how you treat others so treating your students and other adults with kindness and respect can have a significant impact.

Intervening in a Bullying Incident

Steps to Take

If you see an active bullying incident, follow these steps:

1. Intervene immediately. Get another staff member to help if necessary.
2. Separate the students involved.
3. Make sure everyone is safe.
4. Identify any immediate medical or mental health needs.
5. Contact a nurse or counselor if necessary.
6. Stay calm. Reassure any of the students involved.
7. Model respectful behavior when you intervene.

Call an SRO or nurse immediately if:

• A weapon is involved.
• There are threats of serious physical injury.
• There are threats of hate-motivated violence, such as racism.
• There is serious bodily harm.
• There is sexual abuse.
• Anyone is accused of an illegal act, such as robbery.

Meeting with the Students

• Keep all the involved students separate.
• Get the story from several sources, including both students and adults.
• Listen without blaming.
• Don’t call the act “bullying” while you are trying to understand what happened.

Determining if an Incident is Bullying

Consider the following questions:

• What is the history between the students involved?
• Have there been past conflicts or incidents?
• What kind of relationship do the students have?
• Is the student worried it will happen again?

Common Mistakes

• Ignoring the incident
• Assuming the students will work it out on their own
• Immediately trying to find out the facts
• Forcing other students to say publicly what they saw
• Questioning the students involved in front of other students
• Talking to the students involved together
• Making the students involved apologize immediately

Supporting Bullied Students

Do:	Don’t:
Assure the student that the bullying is not their fault. This reassurance helps reduce shame and self-blame.	Blame the student for being bullied. Even if they provoked the bullying, no one deserves to be bullied.
Encourage the student to walk away from the situation if it is safe to do so and to immediately report the incident to a trusted adult.	Tell the child to physically fight back against the kid who is bullying. This could get the student hurt, suspended, or expelled.
Work with other staff and families to resolve the situation and protect the bullied student. Continue with follow up support after bullying has been resolved.	Have the parents of the bullied student contact the parents of the bully. This could make matters worse. If needed, have school staff mediate.
Listen and focus on the student. Commit to making the bullying stop and consistently support the bullied student.	Tell the student to ignore the bullying. This may cause the bullying to continue or worsen.

Questions to Ask the Student

• What can I do right now to support you?
• Who do you feel most comfortable talking to if this happens again?
• What’s the hardest part of this situation for you?
• What would make you feel safe at school?

Addressing the Bully’s Behavior

Step 1: Identify and address behavior.

• Clearly explain what behavior is the problem.
• Calmly tell the child that bullying will not be tolerated.
• Model respectful behavior when addressing the problem.

Step 2: Understand the why.

• Talk through possible reasons that the student bullied, such as trying to fit in, issues at home, or being bullied themselves.
• Keep the tone open and supportive.

Step 3: Utilize consequences to teach.

• Focus on learning over punishment.
• Possible ideas include having the student write an apology letter or do a good deed for the bullied student.

Step 4: Make amends.

• Guide the student in repairing the harm they caused.
• Reinforce how their actions affect others.
• Encourage empathy and accountability.

Step 5: Follow up with support.

• Praise acts of kindness.
• Discuss what it means to be a good friend.
• Maintain ongoing check-ins.

Resources

https://www.stopbullying.gov/

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While Halloween can be an exciting and festive time at school, it is important to keep in mind a few simple tips that help promote both safety and inclusion for all students.

1. Ensure costumes allow for safe visibility.

Students should be able to see clearly without their vision being blocked or impaired.

2. Discourage props or accessories that create hazards.

Items that could cause tripping or accidental harm should be avoided.

3. Prohibit costumes with realistic-looking weapons.

These can cause confusion, alarm, or potential safety concerns.

4. Promote cultural sensitivity in costume choices.

Encourage creativity that is respectful and avoid costumes that could offend or reinforce stereotypes.

5. Encourage kindness and respect for all costumes.

Remind students that Halloween is meant to be fun for everyone, regardless of costume style.

6. Provide support for students without costume access.

Schools can offer low-cost options or seek donations so every student feels included.

7. Keep costume parades non-competitive.

A focus on participation rather than prizes helps create a more inclusive and positive experience.

8. Be mindful of food allergies when providing candy.

Choose allergy-friendly options or offer non-food treats so all students can safely participate.

Resources

Halloween Safety Tips for School Districts

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In today’s world, digital citizenship is no longer an optional skill. Students spend significant portions of their lives online, whether they are learning, communicating with friends, creating content, or exploring new interests.  

Digital citizenship involves understanding how to use technology appropriately, ethically, and safely. It empowers students to navigate online spaces with confidence while protecting their privacy, reputation, and well-being. 

What Is Digital Citizenship? 

Digital citizenship refers to the responsible use of technology and digital platforms. It includes: 

• Online safety and security 

• Digital communication and etiquette 

• Privacy protection 

• Media literacy and critical thinking 

• Respectful online behavior 

• Understanding digital footprints 

• Ethical use of information and intellectual property 

Strong digital citizens know how to make smart decisions online while contributing positively to digital communities. 

Why Digital Citizenship Matters 

Students today are growing up in a world where online and offline experiences are deeply connected. A social media post, comment, or shared image can have lasting consequences. At the same time, digital tools offer incredible opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and learning. 

Without guidance, students may face challenges such as: 

• Cyberbullying 

• Online scams and phishing attempts 

• Misinformation and fake news 

• Identity theft 

• Privacy breaches 

• Harmful online interactions 

Teaching digital citizenship helps students recognize risks and develop the skills needed to engage safely and responsibly online. 

Key Online Safety Practices for Students 

1. Protect Personal Information 

Students should understand that not everything belongs online. Personal information such as home addresses, phone numbers, passwords, school schedules, and financial information should never be shared publicly. 

Classroom Activity 

Have students analyze example social media profiles and identify information that should remain private. This activity helps students recognize privacy risks before they encounter them in real-world situations. 

2. Understand their Digital Footprint 

Every online action contributes to a person’s digital footprint. Posts, comments, photos, and likes may remain accessible long after they are shared. 

Students often underestimate how digital footprints can affect: 

• College admissions 

• Scholarship opportunities 

• Employment prospects 

• Personal relationships 

Classroom Activity 

Have students consider different kinds of social media posts and answer this question:  

“Would I be comfortable if this post were viewed by a future employer, teacher, or family member?” 

Explain to students: If the answer is no, it may be best not to post it. 

3. Manage Privacy Settings 

Many students create social media accounts without reviewing privacy settings. 

Educators can encourage students to: 

• Regularly review privacy controls 

• Limit public access to profiles 

• Restrict location sharing 

• Carefully manage friend and follower requests 

Understanding privacy settings helps students maintain greater control over their online presence. 

Classroom Activity 

Provide students with information that could be found on social media. Have students identify what information should be public, private, or shared only with trusted connections. 

4. Recognize Online Manipulation 

Students should learn that not all online interactions are genuine. Fake accounts, scammers, and bad actors often target young users. 

Teach students to: 

• Verify identities before engaging 

• Avoid sharing personal information with strangers 

• Report suspicious behavior 

• Seek help from trusted adults when needed 

Classroom Activity 

Have students analyze examples of online messages, advertisements, social media posts, and emails that may contain manipulation tactics. Working individually or in teams, students identify warning signs and determine whether the content appears trustworthy. 

5. Use Respectful Communication 

Online communication often lacks facial expressions, tone, and body language. As a result, misunderstandings and conflicts can happen quickly. 

Teach students to: 

• Pause before responding emotionally 

• Communicate respectfully 

• Disagree without attacking others 

• Consider different perspectives 

• Practice empathy online 

The same behavioral expectations that apply in classrooms should extend to digital spaces. 

Classroom Activity

Ask students: 

“How would you feel if someone posted that comment about you?” 

This simple question can help students develop empathy and better understand the impact of their online actions. 

6. Combat Misinformation

One of the most important digital citizenship skills is evaluating information critically. 

Students are exposed to vast amounts of content through social media, videos, blogs, and online communities. Not all information is accurate. 

Teach students to: 

• Check multiple sources 

• Verify authors and organizations 

• Examine publication dates 

• Distinguish facts from opinions 

• Identify biased or misleading content 

Classroom Activity 

Present students with several articles and social media posts. Ask them to evaluate credibility using a checklist that includes: 

• Source reliability 

• Evidence provided 

• Author expertise 

• Potential bias 

Preparing students to navigate the digital world responsibly is one of the most impactful investments educators can make. Digital citizenship goes beyond avoiding risks. It equips students with the skills to think critically, communicate respectfully, protect themselves online, and positively contribute to digital communities. 

By embedding digital citizenship into everyday learning experiences, educators can help students become informed, ethical, and resilient digital citizens who are ready to thrive in an increasingly connected world. 

Additional Resources 

• https://www.commonsense.org/education  

• https://www.iste.org 

• https://beinternetawesome.withgoogle.com 

• https://www.poynter.org/mediawise 

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The holiday season can be a time of joy and celebration, but for many students, it can also bring stress, uncertainty, and resurfacing trauma. As educators, understanding and applying trauma-informed practices during this period is essential to creating a safe and supportive classroom environment. 

There are several strategies educators can use to ensure every student feels seen, valued, and supported throughout the holiday season. 

1. Recognize possible student struggles. 

The holiday season will not be easy for every student. Some students may be coping with loss or experiencing challenges at home. 

2. Check in with students. 

Creating opportunities for students to talk about their feelings related to the holidays can help them process their emotions. 

3. Maintain consistent routines. 

Although there will be changes due to the holidays, providing predictability as possible can help students feel safer. 

4. Prepare students for schedule changes. 

When there are changes in the schedule, let the students know in advance and explain why the change is occurring. 

5. Offer alternatives to parties. 

Some students may feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed at parties. Providing calm alternatives can help these students. 

6. Don’t assume students know common traditions. 

Explaining traditions as discussed helps students feel included even if they have not participated in the traditions previously. 

7. Help students create new traditions. 

Creating new traditions helps students feel like they are a part of something meaningful and positive. 

8. Provide at-home activity options. 

Providing easy activities, such as coloring pages or word searches, can make it easier for students who struggle being at home during the day. 

9. Avoid isolating questions. 

Questions like “What did you do over winter break?” or “What gifts did you receive over the holidays?” may make some students feel left out. 

10. Ask forward-thinking questions. 

Ask questions like “What are you looking forward to when we come back from winter break?” or “What are you excited to start learning about?” 

By embracing trauma-informed practices, educators can create a classroom where every student feels supported and valued. These strategies aren’t just seasonal; they build a foundation of trust lasts beyond the holidays. Your empathy and awareness can transform this time of year into one of connection and care for all students. 

References 

Allen, H. (2024, December 13). The connection between trauma and the holidays. Sunfield Center. https://sunfieldcenter.com/the-connection-between-trauma-and-the-holidays/ 

Merrow, C. (2023, November 27). Reduce winter break stress for students. Empowering Education. https://empoweringeducation.org/blog/five-tips-to-reduce-winter-break-anxiety-for-students/  

Trauma-Informed Strategies for Before, During, & After Winter Break Toolkit . B Hero. https://b-hero.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/12-01-23.1_-Supporting-Students-with-Winter-Break.pdf  

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Whether students experience a violent event firsthand or hear about it through the news, they may respond with a range of feelings and concerns. These events can lead to difficult conversations at school or show up in changes in student behavior. This post describes several strategies educators can utilize to support students as they process their emotions about violence and these kinds of events.  

Core Tips for Supporting Students 

• Reassure safety – Emphasize that schools have procedures in place to protect students and adults are working hard to keep everyone safe. 

• Validate feelings – All feelings are okay after a tragedy. Let students talk or start by asking how their friends are feeling.   

• Let their questions guide you – Follow the student’s questions and notice cues they want to talk, like staying nearby or asking about small things.  

• Offer outlets – Encourage students to engage in different activities to help regulate and release their feelings. Examples include drawing, imaginative play, reading, journaling, art, music, or projects.   

• Encourage grounding & breathing exercises – These involve simple sensory activities to help students be more grounded in their current situation rather than violent events.   

• Balance normalcy with flexibility – Maintaining a normal routine can help students feel safe and at ease, but it’s important not to push typical activities if they are feeling overwhelmed. 

Try This!

Here are a few grounding exercises that can help students regulate their emotions.  

• Notice 4 things you can see, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can touch, 1 thing you can smell.   

• Stretch or dance to release tension.   
• Create a relaxing playlist. 

Observing and Responding to Students’ Emotional State  

It is important to watch for behavioral changes and signs of stress in students after violent events have occurred. The following warning signs can help you recognize when a student may need extra support.  

Warning Signs  

• Behaving in uncharacteristic ways  

• Being unusually quiet  

• Acting out  

• Appearing unusually tired  

• Having difficulty concentrating  

• Seeming distracted or distressed  

• Frequently arriving late or leaving early  

• Showing a decreased appetite  

While many students simply need time and support, others may require professional mental health care, especially those with prior trauma or existing mental health challenges.  

Media and Information Exposure  

Children don’t need all the details – they need reassurance, honesty, and safe spaces to share their feelings.  

• Limit viewing of violent events or news – Too much exposure can cause fear and confusion.   

• Avoid adult conversations about violence in front of children – These conversations may cause students to be more afraid and aware of graphic details.  

• Encourage breaks from constant coverage – Older students may get caught in constant violent news streams; breaks help reduce the emotional impact.  

• Correct misinformation – Emphasize facts and avoid using stereotypes and theories when the events are discussed.  

To help students with digital safety, you can encourage them to implement these practices: 

• Pause notifications from apps.   

• Block harmful content.   

• Follow uplifting accounts.  

Age-Appropriate Conversations  

When talking to students about violence, it is important to consider what kind of information and conversations are appropriate for the student based on their age.  

For Elementary School:  

• Keep information brief, simple, and reassuring.   

• Remind them of concrete safety measures, such as locked doors, playground supervision, or emergency drills.   

• Avoid overexposure to media. Children under 6 may not realize media images are not happening again.  

For Middle School:  

• Expect direct questions: “Am I really safe at school?”   

• Help them separate reality from fantasy.   

• Give honest, clear answers, but avoid unnecessary details.   

• Facts or statistics may help students feel better, such as “the likelihood of being injured or killed at school is 1 in 450,000.”  

For High School:  

• Teens may debate causes of violence and want solutions.   

• Encourage discussion, empower them to take action:   

• Report concerns to adults.   

• Follow school safety guidelines.   

• Identify a trusted adult at school. 

Try This!

There are several activities that educators can use with their classes to help students during these times. The lists below provide activities to use by age group.  

Elementary:  

• Feelings Art – Let students draw or color how they are feeling.  

• Story Time with Discussion – Read a book about safety, courage, or kindness and talk about it.  

Middle School:  

• Journaling Time – Encourage students to write down thoughts, questions, or feelings privately.  

• Guided Discussion Circle – Provide structured time to share feelings and listen respectfully.  

High School:  

• Open Dialogue Session – Give space for thoughtful discussion while validating the need for different perspectives.  

• Creative Expression – Encourage poetry, music, or art projects to process emotions.  

• Action-Oriented Activity – Work on a group kindness project, such as letters of support, peer mentoring, or community service. 

References 

How to Help Your Students Cope With Safety Threats in the Community or World. (2025). Retrieved from https://jedfoundation.org/how-to-help-students-cope-with-safety-threats/  

Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Families and Educators. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-safety-and-crisis/school-violence-resources/talking-to-children-about-violence-tips-for-families-and-educators   

Tips for Parents on Talking to Children Exposed to Violent Events. (2024). Retrieved from https://violence.chop.edu/types-violence-involving-youth/school-shootings/tips-parents-talking-children-exposed-violent-events  

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