The Manchester terrorist bombing is getting extensive coverage on the cable news channels. Even without a high-profile attack like that, the news if filled with stories of violence….how should you talk to your children when bad things happen?
Children see the news too or hear about it. For a young mind, stories of violence can be unsettling. The National association of school psychologists has several ideas on ways to approach them about violence.
Find out How Much They Know – Be Age Appropriate With Information. What you tell them is on a need-to-know-basis. And it depends on their age.
Focus on Feelings, Rather Than Facts. Kids may not be able to express their feelings in an articulate way, but it is important you make sure to validate their feelings when they share them.
Reassure Kids They Are Safe. Remind them that these senseless acts of violence and that there are good people all around whose job it is to keep us safe.
Be Honest. Don’t pretend to have all the answers. The truth is often times we don’t know why senseless acts of violence occur and it is ok to say that.
Look for Signs of Stress. It is important that you model calm behavior and if you yourself are feeling anxious, be aware of how you are portraying that to your kids.
And Get Involved! Your children need to feel like they have some sense of control over their environment and that they can have an impact and make a difference. Get them involved at church or in a charity to help them do that.