Child Life Helps Community Cope

On Tuesday, October 3, Beaumont Independent School District (BISD) invited parents to participate in a Parent’s Night focused on helping children deal with the trauma of Hurricane Harvey. The event provided parents with community resources and information to help their children appropriately cope with the effects of the hurricane. Booths were set up by organizations that provide services like mental health therapy, social services, and healthcare services. The event included informational speakers, light refreshments, and door prizes throughout the night.

Ashley Bares, CHRISTUS Southeast Texas St. Elizabeth’s Certified Child Life Specialist, spoke with parents about coping strategies for children at different developmental ages. Bares provided several helpful resources to parents. She gave out coloring books with a story about dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane, pamphlets for parents with tips to help children cope with stress after a natural disaster, and a list of recommended books with more detailed advice.

While parents walked from booth to booth gathering information, there were plenty of fun activities for the kids. Businesses like Kona Ice, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and Chick-fil-A provided free goodies for everyone to snack on. Several service vendors also brought fun treats for the kids like new pencils, sunglasses, and cups. Bares gave out Beanie Babies and Crayons provided by Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

We are thrilled that Ashley Bares represented CHRISTUS to extend the healing ministries of Jesus Christ to the BISD community. CHRISTUS Southeast Texas Health System was honored to take care of our community during the storm, and we are honored to help our families continue to heal after the storm.