our snowflakes are in a fragile state of development; the frontal cortex is still developing (responsible for planning, decision making, and inhibiting behavior when processing emotional information); cognitively they are still navigating the grasp of abstract ideas and concepts- and this makes their thinking very idealistic (a real strength IMHO). Then there is the sense of invincibility that they have- that no harm can come to them- what a gift that is because otherwise the world might be so frightening they could be afraid to engage, to step out. Well, recent events have chipped a bit of a hole into this shield of invincibility-- what they though would happen, didn’t; they see friends, relatives or even themselves that are concerned for their safety or their rights. It’s a lot. They’ll get there.
We need to invest time and resources into helping them navigate this… really… we are counting on them. So belittling them isn’t helpful; ignoring their needs doesn’t make those needs go away. When I see students walking out of class I see young people who believe (know) they can make a difference…when I see students crying over election returns, I see students who love the democratic process deeply and feel invested in it. These things give me hope.