Heartbreaking. It's so hard to describe the feelings we're all having after Monday's tragedy, but I think "heart breaking" seems to sum it up. If we're feeling this way, our kids are certainly picking up on it. How can we begin to heal and guide our children to do the same? I've included some local resources below for your reference. For now, let's try to be a little kinder, a little more understanding of each other and try to take a few minutes each day to be grateful for our beautiful community and all that it has to offer.
RESOURCES-
Boulder Office of Emergency Management - Mental Health resources, Police Department Victim Advocates and more
Therapy Aid Coalition (held today at Unity of Boulder) - Trauma and Crisis trained therapists available with certified therapy dog onsite for additional support
How to Talk to Your Kids About the Boulder Shooting - Denver Post Article
Helping Children Exposed to Shocking Events - Hand in Hand Parenting Article and Parent Support Programs
HOW YOU CAN HELP-
Colorado Healing Fund - CHF provides a secure way to donate to victims of these tragedies. We work with victim service partners to identify victim needs and fill the gaps in financial resources. 5% of each donation will support CHF operations.
Boulder County Crisis Fund - The Boulder County Crisis Fund will support victims, their families, and our community in dealing with and processing these devastating events.
Boulder County Injured and Fallen Officers Fund - Donate to assist the family (7 children!) of fallen Boulder police officer, Eric Talley.
RIGHT NOW-
* Look for the HELPERS! If your children are old enough to watch the news with you be sure to point out; everyone that put their life on the line to help others, those who are bringing flowers to memorial sites, organizations that have set up funds to help victim's families and survivors, and talk about how your kids can help in their own way!
* Step outside and breathe! Getting away from the TV and news reports by going for a simple walk around the block can help you take your mind off this horrible event.
* Do something you and your kids love! Take a drive into the mountains, go for a picnic, or throw on some music and have an impromptu dance party. Show your kids what resiliency looks like!
* Talk about your feelings to your kids and include HOW you plan to manage those feelings. (See above...)
* See if your children will share their feelings around this scary event while playing a game. Younger children can use dolls or toys to express what they're feeling. Be sure to give extra hugs and compliment them on their bravery in sharing their thoughts with you.
Please join me tonight, by stepping outside at 8 p.m., taking 10 slow breaths, followed by 10 minutes of silence. Each breath and minute to honor each victim of the shooting. This will continue for 10 nights. Or just do any version that works for you. #BoulderStrong #TenTogetherBoulder
Thanks for being a part of the Macaroni Kid Family~
Warmly,
Michele
