Carol,
This sort of loss happened more often than I wish
to remember at the Middle School I taught at. Several times
we did art in remembrance. One time the art was displayed at
the funeral service. Here is an example of when we created
a web page in the child's memory.
http://kancrn.kckps.k12.ks.us/rosedale/PrincessPamela.html
Pamela's sister was at my school. Pamela was a fifth grader
abducted while roller bladeing in front of her home and
later killed. The entire community was in shock and disbelief.
Every situation is different but an art project directed
to relieve pain is well worth doing. I suggest that you
mention your plans to your principal first.
Sad situations are part of learning, Woody
Carol K. wrote:
> Hi everyone.
>
> I just received devastating news that one of my 4th grade students took
> his life (possibly by accident). I'm so stunned. It just breaks my
> heart and I can't imagine how his classmates will take the news. I
> teach at several schools and when I come to this school on Tuesday the
> students will already know.
> My question is this - I do not have a background in art therapy but I
> am wondering if I should postpone the project we have been working on
> so that we could do something that might be a little more therapeutic
> for them (without necessarily telling them that that's why we are
> postponing it). Perhaps some free drawing or clay meditation.... Or
> maybe just sticking to the planned project would be good for their
> sense of stability.
> Any thoughts?
>
> -Carol
