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5 best practices for embedding bereavement and grief support in schools (k12dive.com)

 

Stock Photo via Getty Images Anxiety disorders among children and teens are linked to an increased likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder or depression in the future, according to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

To read more of Elena Ferrarin's article, please click here.



The loss of parents or other primary caregivers — among the most tragic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for students — has sparked a need to provide bereavement support in schools.

The pandemic underscored the importance of supporting grieving children in school settings as well as in medical and behavioral health ones, said David J. Schonfeld, director of the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, which coordinates the Coalition to Support Grieving Students.

“No child should grieve alone, and we should come together as a community and become better at supporting them,” Schonfeld said.

As schools continue developing strategies to help students who are grieving due to COVID-19 or other traumatic events, Schonfeld and other experts recommend the following five best practices.

Understand grief and bereavement

Train all school staff

Provide age-appropriate support

Leverage relationships with local partners

Ensure staff have support, too

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