Letter to Families
Dear Family,Today at school, we started a unit that teaches children how to avoid gun accidents. The program uses a picture book, The Gorp's Gift and related materials so your child will learn in an age appropriate way, how to stay safe if they encounter firearms. (We do not use guns of any sort to teach this unit.) Since there are now 230 million guns in our country, the likelihood of our students encountering one, unfortunately, increases daily. We are looking to empower each student so they will know exactly what to do and what not to do if they find themselves in this situation.
Please know that The Gorp's Gift teaching unit is apolitical. It has nothing to do with the politics of gun legislation, either pro or con. The program has only to do with keeping our children safe! Hopefully, a bonus of the program will be a gentler, more non-violent generation, starting with your child.
You can help your children by:
- Talking with them. Listening to them. Letting them talk about their fears and concerns. Take these feelings seriously. Kids hear a lot through TV and their peers, and some of them are frightened by what they think could happen in their own schools and home towns. Listen to them and let them talk to you.
- It goes without saying that we need your cooperation regarding any firearms you choose to keep in your home. We've never met a child who can't climb and who isn't curious. People often think they've hidden their weapons, bullets, keys, but as we know from heartbreaking headlines, kids seem to be able to find the best hiding places. Plan well. (And please remember when cleaning or handling your gun, that even though the clip is out, there could still be a bullet in the chamber.)
- As your children get older, stay interested and know who they are with and where they are playing. It's not rude these days to ask the parents of your children's friends about guns in their home. Stay involved, it's your right as a parent.
- We hope this will be a cooperative project between you as caregivers, your child, and everyone at school. Gun violence has reached epidemic proportions in our country. The death of even one more child is one too many.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this unit and what we are doing in the classroom, please call me at _______________. Your input is always welcome.
- If you'd like to know more about The Gorp Group and their anti-violence work, please call 1-888-PAX-GORP (729-4677). Thank you for participating!
Sincerely,
Adapted from The Gorp's Gift Teacher's Guide by Tracy Osburn.
