Another way to minimize stress is to normalize your child’s day, says Susan Lipkins, PhD, a psychologist and nationally-recognized expert in Port Washington, NY, who specializes in traumatic issues/events which confront children, tweens and teens. “There’s comfort in the routine.”

“Where can one be safe, ever? Is this the new normal?”
asks a 14 year old.

(NEW YORK) – Imagine the Newtown, CT tragedy through the eyes of an impressionable 14 year old. She was just born when Columbine happened and was too young to understand 9/11. A little bit more seeped in when Virginia tech occurred, and then there were more shootings at malls and movie theaters. Now this.

“It’s a good idea that kids go back to school as soon as possible and normalize and get accustomed to a routine,” said psychologist Susan Lipkins. “You want to make it as familiar and easy as possible so the transition is as smooth as possible for teachers, faculty and the children.”