ArSCA expresses our deepest thoughts to those affected by last week’s tornadoes and severe storms.  Please review this information from our friends at TRIS regarding traumatic severe weather events help and follow-up.

  ArSCA President Allison Spraggins

Our hearts go out to the communities affected by last week’s severe weather in Arkansas. Experiencing a tornado can be very frightening and stressful for children and adults alike, especially for those directly affected (loss or damage), and for those with prior experiences of traumatic events. How children respond to natural disasters is influenced by how the adults around them cope, and they often turn to their parents and teachers for information and comfort.
To help you provide support to your school community, and to find the support you need, UAMS TRIS and Project Play are hosting a Q&A webinar on Thursday, April 6th, from 4:00-5:15 P.M. for all early care and K-12 school personnel (see below). We’ve also gathered some helpful resources below on how schools and families can best respond after a tornado. Finally, if your
K-12 school needs direct guidance on how to support students after the tornado or any other traumatic event, please reach out to TRIS here for support. TRIS is standing by you and your schools during this difficult time.
RESOURCES: SUPPORTING CHILDREN AND FAMILIES AFTER A TORNADO

Resources for K-12 School Personnel 

Resources for Early Care and Education Providers

Resources for Children and Families

Resources for Children and Families in Spanish

Mental Health Resources 

More Natural Disaster Resource Sites

If a child, your school, or your community has been effected by a traumatic event, TRIS offers:

  • Training for school personnel on childhood trauma and trauma-informed care
  • Mental healthcare navigation for children, family or staff mental health needs
  • Consultation to school counselors and leaders after a traumatic event and support in implementing trauma-informed care practices
  • Resources on a range of trauma-related topics to support schools’ individual needs