Today, I conducted my first lockdown drill with my kindergarten class. As a first-year teacher, navigating this experience was certainly challenging. I had to explain to the kids that it was just a practice but that we still needed to remain quiet and find a hiding spot. To help ease the tension, I quietly read them a story, but then one of my students innocently asked if we were hiding from a skunk, which left me momentarily speechless. Their faces reflected confusion and, for some, fear.
At just 21 years old, I grew up with lockdown drills too, and I can honestly say they were quite traumatic. It’s hard to fathom that there are people out there who might intend to harm myself or my students.
So, I’m reaching out for advice: How can I make lockdown drills less stressful for my sweet little ones? What strategies do you have to ensure we prepare them while minimizing anxiety?
First off, I want to commend you for taking the initiative to run the lockdown drill and for being sensitive to your students’ feelings during such a challenging experience. It’s tough to navigate these situations, especially with young kids.
Here are a few tips to help make lockdown drills a bit easier for your kindergarteners:
Use Simple Language: Keep your explanations age-appropriate. Instead of discussing the concept of lockdowns directly, frame it as a safety practice. You can explain that sometimes we practice staying safe, just like we practice fire drills.
Create a Safe Space: Let them know that your classroom is a safe place and that the drill is to help everyone stay safe. Reinforce that they are not in danger during the drills.
Incorporate Storytime: Reading a calming story can help distract and soothe the students. Choose stories that focus on bravery or safety, but that do not explicitly mention threats.
Encourage Questions: Let them know it’s okay to ask questions and share their feelings. If they ask about hiding from a skunk or anything that confuses them, validate their feelings and redirect their thoughts positively.
Practice Calmness: Teach them simple breathing exercises or calming techniques they can use if they start to feel scared or anxious during the drill. This can empower them and help them feel more in control.
Debrief Afterwards: After the drill, have a discussion to clarify any confusion they might have and to reinforce that it was just a practice. Allow them to express their feelings and reassure them that they are safe.
Build Relationships: Establishing strong relationships with your students can create a sense of security. When they know they can trust you, they may feel more comfortable during drills.
Involve Them: Depending on their comfort level, involve them in the process. You can explain the purpose of the drill and what they can do to help. This can give them a sense of ownership over their own safety.
Remember, the goal is not to scare them, but to prepare them in the best way possible while maintaining a sense of safety and normalcy. Your compassion and thoughtfulness will make a huge difference!