I have witnessed at least one of the children in question in the classroom, multiple times since the loss. It was a gradual introduction. Very well done. What i have seen with the piers, "normality", friends, routine, etc etc has made me relax and realise that its ok. It really is, ok. From what i see it is proving to be the most heartening thing about the whole situation.
We shouldn't underestimate children's ability to fit back into life. They do thrive on routine and the shift of focus from home life is often good. Al taught "emotional resilience" in children, and even though im not sure of the exact principles, Im pretty certain this would have entailed facing up to everyday pressures and dealing with things head on, and "talking it out", sheddding tears with piers and other adults they choose to share with, rather than hiding heads in sand, running from, hiding from and avoiding life pressures. If the kids get through this time by facing up to it as they are being given the opportunity to do, I imagine they will be stronger adults, able to deal with problems in a positive manner. The best part of Brookfield is that we can rely on the community and quality of kids and teachers. Its ok.