In Regards of The Recent Devastating Lost in Uvalde, Texas

Fairmont Pediatrics & Associates Parents, Guardians, and Families:

​We were deeply saddened to hear the news of the school shooting and the devastating loss of life that occurred in Uvalde, Texas. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, members of the community, and those impacted by this tragedy.

​As your child(ren)’s pediatric healthcare providers we hope to assist you with guidance to best provide support for your child(ren) in the aftermath of this crisis.

Identify emotional distress cues

• Watch for clues that your child might want to talk but understand that not all children will want or need to talk about these events. Some children may not express their concerns verbally.

• Be aware of signs that children might be in distress, such as changes in behavior, anxiety, sleep problems, acting out, and problems at school or with academic work.

Talking with your child

Talking with your children about school-based violence should be age-appropriate:

• Young children (Pre-K through 2ndgrade) Need simple brief discussions. Children in this age group react to adult emotions, try to remain calm while providing reassurance. Discuss simple examples of safety such as locking the doors and following directions.

• Upper elementary and early middle school students (3rd – 7th grade) May have questions regarding what is being done to keep them safe, become familiar with the school’s safety plan, and discuss the plan with your child.

• Upper middle school – high school students (8th -12th grade) May have strong opinions regarding school-based violence. Discuss with your child how they can contribute to the safety of their schools (i.e., following school safety plans, speaking to a trusted adult regarding concerning peer behaviors or for any personal mental health concerns).

Emergency preparedness

• Make sure you have reviewed your school’s safety plan and verify your child’s understanding of the plan and provide additional training, as needed.

• Ask your child’s teacher about the plans the school has in place for emergencies such as fires, bomb threats, and armed intruders.

• Place emergency information cards in your child’s backpack or wallet. You can print a card from the CDC website by searching “backpack emergency card” or by using the link provided below: https://www.cdc.gov/cpr/readywrigley/documents/backpack_emergency_card.pdf

Violence prevention and mental health promotion

• Addressing children’s mental health concerns is scientifically proven to decrease the likelihood of a child externalizing negative emotions. If you have any concerns regarding your child’s conduct, behavior, or mental health please contact us today for guidance.

• Complete the mental health assessment forms we provide during your child’s office visits. Mental health screenings are imperative to identify children and adolescents in need.

Gun safety

• All guns in your home should be locked and unloaded, with ammunition locked separately.

• Keep your children safe when visiting friends and family members. If your child spends time in another home ask about the presence of weapons and the homeowner’s gun safety practices.

Additional resources

• Violence and safety: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Crime-Violence-and-Your-Child.aspx

• Handgun safety: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Handguns-in-the-Home.aspx

• Anger and conflict: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Pages/Everybody-Gets-Mad-Helping-Your-Child-Cope-with-Conflict.aspx

• Talking with you pediatric healthcare provider about mental health: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/emotional-wellness/Pages/How-to-Talk-with-Your-Child-and-Their-Pediatrician-About-Mental-Health-Concerns.aspx

• Mental health danger signs: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/teen/Pages/Mental-Health-and-Teens-Watch-for-Danger-Signs.aspx

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us, directly, at the numbers listed below.

Pasadena Location

Fairmont Pediatrics, Pasadena, Texas (Burke)

Phone (281) 487-5437

Address: 4002 Burke Road, Suite 200, Pasadena, TX 77504

Office Hours:

Monday to Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

La Porte Location

Fairmont Pediatrics, La Porte, TX

Phone (346) 222-7370

Address: 400 W Fairmont Pkwy, La Porte, TX 77571

Office Hours:

Monday, Wenesday to Friday 8:00am to 1:00pm

Monday, Wenesday to Friday 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Tuesday 9:00am to 1:00pm

Tuesday 2:00pm to 6:00pm

Saturday & Sunday CLOSED

Thank you for allowing us to care for and serve your families,  

Fairmont Pediatrics & Associates