Talking to Children about the Shooting

December 17, 2012

In the wake of the tragic shooting in Connecticut, many of you will be working with children and families who will have questions, concerns, and fears you need to deal with.  And, it is important that you deal with these issues forthrightly and appropriately.  We have surveyed members of the Exchange community and they have recommended  these resources, which you may refer to in guiding how to respond: 

• An Exchange article by Diane Levin:  "When the World is a Dangerous Place — Helping Children Deal with Violence in the News."

• A New York Times article, "Tips for Talking to Children About the Shooting."

• Advice from National Child Traumatic Stress Network, "Talking to Children about the Shooting."

• Advice from the National Association of School Psychologists, "A National Tragedy: Helping Children Cope."

• A resource from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, "Tips for Talking to Children and Youth after Traumatic Events."

• Fred Rogers' advice from Family Communications, "Helping Children Deal with Tragic Events in the News."

• Advice from the American Psychological Association, "Helping Your Children Manage Distress in the Aftermath of a Shooting."