Could Children Benefit from a Terrorism Preparation Plan?

Traveling home on our typical daily route, we happened to notice several official signs posted a long the way. Colored in blue, the words Evacuation Route were printed in white bold text. I must say, it gave me an uneasy feeling. Could it be a normal government precaution in case of an emergency? Perhaps due to the current Hurricane Season? Sure. It absolutely could be, but in this day and age, war is a dinner table discussion, and my mind couldn't resist wandering to the worst. Is it possible that they are expecting something?

Playing the possibilities in my mind, it lead me to think about whether or not America is prepared for a disaster such as 9-11. On September 11, one of the many people affected by the tragedy were children. Not only did many lose their family members, but many lost the appearance of innocence in the world. It was shocking, scary, and confusing.

Years later, it's questionable whether or not the children of America are as prepared as the government is for any such disaster. In many schools, discussions have been had about the war in Iraq, but with such tight restrictions on the information that teachers can offer, it's hard to go any further.

On September 11, the President was at a school surrounded by many children. After school that day, many children went home to their parents only to learn that America had been attacked, not understanding what truly was happening, but only that evil had landed on our ground, and we were in trouble.

Could children benefit from an evacuation plan as well? If something were to happen in the United States, how prepared would schools be, and with mass panic, how would the children react? Some parents would be outraged hearing of any discussion of what to do in such a situation, but many others would be thankful, knowing that they have been assured of their children's safety.

Children should know exactly what to do, expect, and feel. With a plan implemented, school students would know exactly what to do, which typically means less fear, and more comfort. Teachers would follow the plan, and show the children that they are not only organized, but in charge.

Speaking to children about terrorism can be a controversial subject, but it's time to face the facts. One way or another, they will learn of terrorism, whether by news, or word of mouth. It's time for America to make a plan for everyone, including children.