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Dial 2-1-1 for help with war-related issuesThe United Way can help with war-related issues when you dial 2-1-1. There you can be connected with hundreds of counseling services for families with members overseas, children struggling to understand the situation or added stress. If you want to get involved by volunteering, dialing 2-1-1 can help you find the perfect volunteer opportunity. If youíre worried about chemical warfare and want to learn how to take precautions, call United Way 2-1-1 for answers. Dialing 2-1-1 can help you get in touch with other disaster-related services in your local community. The United Way offers the following tips for helping children cope with war and terrorism: ď Maintain a normal routine. Very young children and babies will not understand what is going on, but can pick up on adultsí worry. Keeping a normal schedule will help children of all ages to be comforted. ď Be patient. Older children, especially teenagers, will mask fears with irritability, humor or avoidance. Take time to talk to their fears. ď Avoid generalizing and placing the blame on a whole group of people. ď Answer questions honestly. Do not address childrenís concerns by exaggerating or overreacting. ď Limit media exposure. Babies and toddlers should be shielded as much as possible. Preschoolers and elementary school children should only see a limited amount. Talk with middle and high school aged kids about media literacy and using it selectively. This information was provided by the Minneapolis-based organization, National Institute on Media and the Family. a United Way partner in Success by 6Ć. ©ECM Post Review |