About a week after the Mercer Island City Council approved a proclamation condemning the attacks against the State of Israel, the local PTA Council issued a statement regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict as the war continues to rage.

In a portion of its proclamation, which was authorized during an Oct. 17 meeting, the city council encourages all Mercer Island residents to oppose all forms of hatred, prejudice and violence and promote understanding, dialogue and peace among all Islanders.

On Oct. 25, the PTA Council followed up with this online message to Islanders nearly three weeks after the war began: “As we witness the impact of the recent horrific events in Israel and Gaza, many in our community are struggling with difficult emotions including anger, fear, sadness, and confusion. We are committed to the well-being of children, families, and educators, and our hearts go out to any and all who are struggling with the impact of violence, war, and terrorism. We support our families and children, and are committed to fostering belonging, safety, and mental health for every member of our school community.”

Through a close partnership that has been forged between the PTA Council and Mercer Island Youth and Family Services (YFS), the council supports YFS’s efforts in fortifying local students and families with its school-based counselors and confidential mental health support for all.

The PTA Council also pointed toward the National PTA that “offers resources to help families have conversations with children as they navigate the strong emotions they may be experiencing.” Visit: https://bit.ly/3QfX0jr. If children experience or witnesses bullying or harassment at school, the council encourages students to report the misconduct to their school administrator. For resources on bullying and cyberbullying, visit https://www.stopbullying.gov/.

YFS Administrator Derek Franklin noted that YFS’s school-based and outpatient counselors have been providing additional emotional support for Islanders impacted by the conflict in the Middle East.

“YFS counselors are having conversations with youth about the emotional impact of the conflict and coaching parents on how to address the issue with their kids in developmentally appropriate ways,” Franklin said. “YFS counselors recommend that parents reassure young kids that they are safe and that other adults are here to support their safety as well, including teachers and first responders. Parents of teens can watch the news together and have conversations about avoiding stereotypes.”

Additionally, when honestly discussing the Israel-Hamas conflict with their children, YFS counselors ask parents to focus on correcting any possible misinformation or misperceptions, and also anchor their conversations on listening — not fixing. Counselors also request that parents refrain from sharing too many details about the war that can inadvertently add to the trauma, Franklin said.

“YFS counselors encourage both youth and adults to identify ways to express compassion and encourage a culture of belonging — both of which can provide a productive outlet for otherwise complicated and difficult feelings,” he added.

For YFS information, visit: https://www.mercerisland.gov/yfs