JM McNamara is a single mom with two children who has experienced deep trauma. Their father killed his then-girlfriend and then himself, and later, their step father walked out on them suddenly. JM understands that these unforeseen life events can have a hugely negative impact on her children, but here’s how she is working with them to set them up for success and help them face adversity when things don’t go according to plan.
- JM's ex-husband killed his girlfriend and then himself. This caused serious trauma in her two children, aged 13 and 10.
- How did JM cope during this tragedy?
- Sometimes, you just have to take it 5 minutes at time in order to properly cope.
- In light of tragedy, it’s important to be plugged into a community so that your children not only get your support, but the love and support of others. It really does take a village.
- No one gives you a manual on how to be a good parent.
- As much as you want to hide the truth from your children, don’t. Tell the truth and they will respect you for it.
- It’s okay to tell them you don’t have all the answers, but that you’ll figure it out.
- It’s important your children have a strong routine. It makes a big difference when faced with grief.
- How should you be thinking about school when a tragedy happens?
- As a parent, it’s important to be their voice and help guide them through this challenging time.
- Some people might feel embarrassed about the events that happen to them. They might not want to tell anyone, but that will only make you feel more isolated.
- What is post-traumatic growth?
- What resources should a parent tap into?
- JM is still processing the tragedy that has happened to her family, and she’s an adult! You can only imagine what it might do to your young children.
- You’re not a victim. You are a survivor!
Episode Sponsored by Gerety Presentations
Quotes:
“If I could rewind the clock when this tragedy happened, I can tell you it’s one step at a time. We just would take it five minutes at a time.”
“Children change so much. Everyday they are changing, learning, growing. They are maturing into what happened to them.”
“I told my children the truth. It was so difficult. Most difficult thing I had to do, but they respected and trusted me to care for them.”
