Resources to help Talk with your Kids about Tragic Events

When our kids are online, we can't shield them from all the things they will encounter. It can be difficult to have conversations with our kids about events. But, if they are online, they have seen the news (and will keep seeing it). They need our help to learn how to process what they are hearing, reading, seeing, and feeling.

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Ways you can help your kids process tragic news at any age:

• Give them a safe space to reflect.
  • Ask them what they have heard.
  • Ask how it makes them feel.
• Talk about meme or misconceptions they have encountered.
  • If they are untrue, discuss the facts.
• Encourage them to create art or play to help them process their feelings.
• Talk about the need for digital breaks.
  
  • ​You might need them more during this time and that's ok.
  • For younger kids, you can set the amount of time for breaks and regulate their exposure.
    
  • For older kids, include them in the conversation. Let them help set the regulation of their time online. Ask leading questions and listen to their responses to help guide them to what will be most helpful for them.

Here are a few great additional resources to help you help your kids:
Explaining The News to Our Kids - Common Sense Media
Helping your children manage distress in the aftermath of a shooting - American Psychological Association
NASP Urges Support for Psychological Safety in Schools, Calls for Action to Reduce Gun Violence - National Association of School Psychologists
Understanding and Coping with the Effects of Violence - Sesame Street 

After taking the time to process and to grieve (both you and your kids) another senseless shooting, it is time to take action. Fred Rodgers said to "look for the helpers." If you have the capacity to be a helper, rally your courage and step up. 

I know it can feel impossible, but the ocean is filled with drops of water so together we can create a bigger impact. Pick one thing to do today and then another to do tomorrow, next week, next month. I have added a recurring event on my calendar to contact my elected officials and I hope you do too.

Resources to help reduce gun violence in America:
Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action
Sandy Hook Promise