Mother's Day Activities for Moms Who Have Lost Children and Kids Who Have Lost Moms

 Mother's Day is a favorite holiday for me. I have four lovely kids plus my mother, step mother and mother-in-law still living. Mother's Day can be bittersweet for kids who have lost moms. And what about the mother who has lost a child? Mother's Day may just be bitter for her. Here are ways to acknowledge Mother's Day (or just survive) if you or someone you love has lost a child. I've included ideas for children (even adult kids) who have lost moms, too. Mother's Day Activities for Moms Who Have Lost Children

Sandy Hook Elementary, Conn. School Shooting Prompts Kids' Emotional Health Concerns

School shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut on December 14, 2012  have claimed the lives of 27 people, including 18 children. A gunman, reportedly a parent, opened fire killing many little ones, mostly of kindergarten age. Along with child safety concerns, I worry, as always, about the emotional toll such an incident has on kids. This article was written on the anniversary of the Virginia Tech shootings in 2007 when 32 students and faculty were killed. I've listed a few resources for parents. Mister Rogers always said, in times of crisis, to "Look for the helpers. There will always be helpers." Let kids know you love them and will help them. Follow the example of this brave woman in the picture to the left. She's comforting kids and keeping them together. She must be terrified, yet she's  staying calm for the little ones. Kids need to be reminded that you will do your best to keep them safe. As a praying mom, I advise parents to call upon their higher power and teach kids to do likewise. Recognizing a higher power helps kids feel they're not alone. Read more