Salvatore Constantino - “Look for the Helpers”: Supporting Children’s Emotional Safety in a Complex World

In a world shaped by constant media exposure, social conflict, and collective anxiety, children often look to adults for help making sense of what they see and feel. Drawing on Fred Rogers’ compassionate and developmentally responsive approach to fear and uncertainty, this interactive workshop explores how educators, counselors, and family support professionals can foster emotional safety for children today. Participants will reflect on modern challenges such as technology use, social media, and cyberbullying, while learning practical strategies for adult self regulation, intentional language, and calm presence that help children feel seen, heard, and supported.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Identify key principles from Fred Rogers’ work that support children’s emotional safety during times of uncertainty and stress.
• Apply developmentally appropriate language and strategies to help children process fear, difficult questions, and media exposure.
• Reflect on the role of adult self regulation and calm presence in reducing child anxiety and fostering resilience.