How to Talk to Your Kids About School Violence
By Dr. Ken Druck

     Springfield, Oregon. Fayetteville, Tennessee. Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Santee, California. Each of these is an entry in a growing list of communities whose peace had been shattered by school violence. While officials and administrators are striving to prevent recurrences, many parents are wondering what they can do to protect their children. If you fit into that category, How to Talk to Your Kids About School Violence by Dr. Ken Druck is the resource you're seeking.

       Our children's safety begins with open communication. If your present conversations are lacking, don't fret. The guidelines begin with twenty small but positive steps to attain/maintain positive communication. The Parents' Violence-Protection Toolbox contains excellent safeguards caregivers can utilize. The Child's Violence-Protection Toolbox includes tips on anger management and dealing with bullies.

      As incredible as the fact may be, students do bring weapons to school. Does your child know what to do if he sees a knife in someone's backpack? What if she finds an unattended pistol? Open a discussion using Dr. Druck's sensible suggestions before tragedy strikes. Hopefully you'll never need the chapters that deal with firsthand and distant tragedies.

       Dr. Druck assisted after the Columbine and Santana High School shootings and also knows firsthand the grief of losing a child. He realizes the challenges parents face and includes "Reality Checks", which encourage caregivers to keep moving forward after a stumble. The guidelines, written in everyday language, and the amiable tone made me feel like a learned friend was sharing advice over a cup of coffee. Due to a recent incident involving one daughter's knife-possessing peer, I hosted a family discussion regarding weapons in school. Bolstered by Dr. Druck's advice, I sent my children to bed feeling empowered, not frightened. Their feedback assured me our school district has enacted proper precautions outlined in the chapter, "What's Being Done to Create Safe Schools". Can you say the same?

      If you read only one parenting book this year, choose How to Talk to Your Kids About School Violence. You won't regret it!