There has been lots in the news about RAAC (Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) being in our children’s schools and you can be forgiven for being extremely anxious about this. But what are the children thinking? Do they hear the news and wonder whether their school will fall down with them inside it? With it being the new school year and there being disruption for children again, their anxiety could increase.
What can I do to help my child who is anxious about RAAC? Sometimes we forget to talk to our children and find out what they are thinking, they may have questions that they don’t know how to ask. Children can have very vivid imaginations when it comes to hearing about things collapsing. Making sure your child knows that their safety is your main concern is important to them. Then they may come to you if they are struggling with other anxious thoughts. Talking openly and honestly with children as young as 5 can really help them to feel heard. You know your child best, talk to them in the way they will understand.
How do I reassure my child that they are safe at school? Explain to your child that their school will do everything within their power to keep them safe. They are not going to have children in unsafe areas of the school. This is the case with all things, not just building issues. The school has a responsibility to care for your child when they are in their care. All schools are in “loco parentis” when the children are there, they are “in place of parents” which means that all kinds of safety issues fall on their shoulders.
As always, if you feel that you need any information or help with supporting your anxious child, whatever they are worried about, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me. Either click on the contact page of my website or email me at: vwjcounselling@gmail.com.
If you want to find out more follow the link below to the BBC news story about what RAAC is:
Victoria Warwick-Jones Counselling 