Using 9/11 and Irma as a reflective learning opportunity

Today, the events of September 11, 2001 and the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Irma are weighing heavily on many people’s minds. And since that’s not lost on our children, perhaps we can use it as a reflective learning opportunity. In terms of 9/11, embrace the opportunity to talk with your child about the importance of studying and understanding history. History provides context for the present. It shapes our identity as people and a nation. And it allows us to learn from the mistakes of others. A natural disaster provides an opportunity to discuss planning, preparedness, prioritization of that which is most important, and to show how much good there is in the world — strangers helping strangers because it’s the right thing to do. Some of our children may not have the depth of experience to fully understand the significance of these two events, but perhaps there’s a meaningful and impactful conversation ready to happen.