There has been so much talk about the tragedy in Japan and it can be confusing to know what to do about it. But, has it even occurred to you how it may have affected your children? Thanks to the Internet, your children have instant access to all the pictures and horror of this tragedy. They also have access to the good that is happening because of it, but like most of us, watch the train wrecks, not the clean up

What I found out this week was  a great newsletter written by the team at the  Polly Klaas® Foundation. You may remember that Polly Klaus was a young girl in California, abducted from her own home during a pajama party. For nine excruciating weeks her parents and community looked for the young girl, ending in the sad discovery of her remains. This was the first time that the Internet played a role in trying to find a missing child. The Foundation nobly continues to this day to bring advice and resources to parents to keep their children safe.

Their recent newsletter talks about the devastation in Japan, but in a way that shows what is being done about it, how it has affected the children and then as importantly offers tips on how and when to talk to your children about what they’ve seen and heard.

“Here are some important tips on helping you and your family navigate these highly emotional major events:

• Every day, tell your children you love them. Address their fears of being separated from you by telling them that no matter what happens, you will always look for them no matter how long it takes. Tell them they can always ask for help in looking for you. 
• Make sure your children know your full name and cell phone numbers, and your address
• Children often seem to have a special bond with other children who are at risk. Encourage this sense of concern and compassion. Tell them the positive news that people around the world are responding with generosity and special help.

Click  Polly Klaus Newsletter to read it in its entirety or go to Polly Klaas® Foundation to sign up for their newsletter.