Checking in with your kids...might prevent a tragedy

In the wake of the tragedy that took place last week in Connecticut, a nation is left wondering, "Why?" Why would someone do such a thing? Why didn't someone...anyone, step in at some point, with a "Hey, how are you doing kid?" to check in with this obviously, very ill young man? We are left looking for answers as to how such a horrific event could have happened and how might we be able to prevent similar events in the future. Ever since the "shoe bomber" was caught, every airline passenger must remove their shoes to prove they don't have a weapon of some sort like he did. The bomber wasn't even successful, yet we still have to remove our shoes. How many school shootings is it going to take for some serious prevention efforts to be put in place?

It's very easy to blame a mental illness for what happened at Sandy Hook Elementary. While we don't have all the facts (and likely never will), it is safe to say this young man was deeply disturbed. Certainly the thought must have crossed someone's mind, at some point, that something wasn't right. Now is not the time to ignore obvious or even not so obvious signs of distress in our young. Take some time to check in with your kids, your kid's friends, your neighbor's kids...whomever you normally come into contact with. If there is a loner, whom everyone tends to ignore or tease or bully, give your child permission to be kind and compassionate, to reach out to this child so they don't feel so alone and can experience acceptance. Just think how alone and hopeless one must feel to commit an act such as what happened on Dec. 14.

Not to excuse the actions, because nothing can, but rather to identify there is something we can do now, in our own community, to potentially prevent this from happening here. It's all our job to take care of the children in our community. By teaching our children to be tolerant, compassionate, caring and giving, we positively impact those around them. Lead by example. Talk to your children. If you see signs that are worrisome, do not ignore them. Get help if you need to. Call Family Support Services of North Idaho at 769-4222 if you don't know what to do or need some guidance. We are here to help.