An Electronic Mental Health Newsletter from Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. & Associates
Volume 19, Number 10
This month’s e-Letter was written by Julie Gordon, LCSW, a therapist in our practice. Julie specializes in child, adolescent, and family therapy. She was instrumental in the opening of Eagle’s Haven in Coral Springs, Florida, and worked extensively with children and families affected by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy. Julie continues to help families nationwide build emotional resilience and find balance through our practice and online therapy services.
Dr. Kimmel’s monthly blog can be found here.
“Awareness builds confidence. Confidence creates calm.”
In today’s world, headlines about school safety can feel constant and overwhelming. It’s natural for both children and parents to feel anxious about returning to school. While fear is understandable, it can grow into chronic anxiety if left unaddressed.
The good news is that parents can help transform fear into preparedness and empowerment. Here’s how.
The good news: parents can help children transform fear into preparedness and empowerment. How? Read on…
1. Be Aware, Not Scared
Children take emotional cues from adults. When parents discuss safety with calm confidence, kids feel more secure. Encourage awareness, not anxiety.
Example: Firefighters teach children to notice exits and plan escape routes during drills. That same awareness can be applied naturally at school, without increasing fear.
2. Acknowledge Their Feelings
Don’t minimize your child’s worries. Instead, validate them. Depending on age, share simple facts about school safety and the measures in place. Some children feel reassured by information; others just need to feel heard and supported.
Example: “I can see why that would feel scary. A lot of kids feel that way sometimes.”
3. Empower Through Information
Ask your child what specifically worries them about school. Then, together, reach out to a teacher or administrator to understand school safety plans. When children see adults taking practical action, they learn that they’re protected and can take part in their own safety.
Example: “The adults in my world are capable protectors, and I can be part of my own safety too.”
4. Normalize, Don’t Catastrophize
It’s important to acknowledge that difficult things can happen but also to keep perspective. Help your child recognize that imagined danger often feels greater than real risk.
Tip: Limit exposure to distressing news or social media. Even overhearing adult conversations about safety can make kids feel unsafe.
5. Teach “Thought Awareness”
Fearful thoughts create anxious feelings. Help your child pause, take a breath if needed, and check in with themselves:
- “Am I safe right now?”
- “What could I think about instead?” (My pet, a happy memory)
- “What’s one thing I can do to feel better?” (Deep breathing, fidget toy, talking to a friend)
Remind them: feelings aren’t facts. This simple skill—known as cognitive reframing helps replace anxious thoughts with calmer, balanced ones.
6. Offer Comfort and Connection
Comfort items like a smooth stone, bracelet, or small toy can serve as reassuring reminders during the school day. More importantly, keep communication open. Check in after school, listen without rushing to “fix” things, and reassure your child they’re not alone.
Remember: Having a connection is the best antidote to fear.
7. Explore Alternative Learning Environments
If anxiety remains severe despite support, explore smaller or alternative options such as homeschooling, Montessori, charter, or hybrid schools. These environments can offer structure with a greater sense of calm and control.
Suggestion: Pair any schooling change with therapy focused on anxiety reduction and emotional regulation to support both learning and emotional growth.
8. Work Together as a Family
Empowerment grows from teamwork. Attend school safety meetings, learn about your district’s safety policies, and talk about concerns as a family.
Suggestion: Each step you take together reinforces this message: “We can and will handle this.”
Final Thoughts
You can’t remove every risk in the world, but you can teach your child to face uncertainty with awareness, resilience, and strength. That’s true empowerment.
If your child’s fear about school safety feels overwhelming or interferes with daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Therapists who specialize in anxiety and trauma can help your family build long-term emotional resilience.
We’re Here to Help
Want more tips on helping your child feel safe at school?
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If your family needs guidance or support navigating school-related anxiety, please reach out. Our therapists are here to help your children and you feel safe, strong, and supported.
- Call us: 954-755-2885
- Email: DrKimmel@KimmelPsychology.com
- Visit: www.KimmelPsychology.com
Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. and Associates
5551 N University Drive, Suite 202
Coral Springs, FL 33067
As always, we are interested in your thoughts. If you would like to respond to this e-Letter, email your comments to DrKimmel@KimmelPsychology.com and we will publish them next month.
Till November…
The information provided in this e-Letter is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional treatment. It is the opinions of the writers and is provided solely for educational purposes. For mental health care, seek a qualified professional
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© 2025 Joel I. Kimmel, Ph.D., P.A. and Associates
