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"He's scared to eat fish!" says Kendra, an Overland Park mom of eight-year-old Adam (not pictured).
It's difficult, in our technological culture, to monitor all the information children receive about the catastrophic BP oil spill. The fact of the matter is that the situation is just plain scary - to adults and kids alike. However, young people need mom's support in order to process the spill and understand it correctly.
When adults seemingly (or realistically) cannot remedy life's problems, it may affect your child's sense of safety and structure. Frequent conversations reveal where their fears and concerns lie. Try open-ended questions to stimulate relaxed, natural talks about the spill and the latest news stories surrounding it. For example:
"What do you know about the spill?"
"Are you concerned? Why?"
The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) suggests your approach be appropriate for your child's age and developmental stage. Comfort preschoolers with statements such as "grown-ups are working hard on solutions" or "Lots of very smart people won't quit until they figure this thing out". If you're skeptical yourself, be sure to mask it well so you don't rattle their confidence and intensify their anxiety.
School-Age and Older
For older age groups and teens, foster a sense of creative curiosity. Go ahead and research online information, updates and resources with them. Check out the Mid American Regional Council's KC SEEN to learn about local environmental education efforts. They also have an online Environmental Education Resource Guide. It's a bit dated, but most of the resources are still useful.
Organizations such as Green Works in Kansas City, Missouri is a great environmental education tool for teens. Executive Director Kate Corwin and the Green Works team do a magnificent job educating area teens and inspiring environmental sensitivities.
There's no way around it. The spill is a horrible situation; however, it provides an amazing developmental opportunity for parents. The silver lining is that families and youth are more interested in the environment than ever!
What a perfect time, to educate your child and shift your family toward healthier and environmental-friendly family practices.
Sources:
The National Wildlife Federation
