This guide offers advice on how to talk to children about tragic events, such as shootings and terrorist attacks, that they are likely to hear about at school and/or on the news. Children and teenagers are better able to cope with upsetting news when they understand more about the event. They need information just as adults do. Begin by asking what they already understand about what happened. They have likely heard about the event on TV, on the internet or social media, at school, or from their friends.
Teaching in the Wake of Violence
Violent attacks that target people because of their identities happen around the world with disturbing frequency. What can educators do to help students reflect on and understand these attacks? This Teaching Idea is a guide for teachers to navigate conversations with their students after news of a mass shooting, terrorist attack, or other violent event. Such conversations are difficult. Yet when we don’t address the violence in the classroom, we risk normalizing it. We recommend coordinating with colleagues and ensuring that students have space to emotionally process the events. Afterwards, you may want to help students explore the nature and impact of hate crimes, and consider ways that communities respond to hate and violence. Finally, we offer recommendations to help students engage with ongoing news coverage in a responsible way.
How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings
“School shootings” are two words no parent ever wants to hear in the same sentence. But news of these tragic events is now so familiar, the topic is unavoidable. Unlike other conversations you have with your kids about scary stuff in the news, talks about school shootings are much more emotional, for both you and your kids. Focus on helping kids understand the news and information they’re seeing and hearing, while allowing them to express their questions and feelings. Cutting through the noise and chaos provides the stability and security kids need to process what’s going on — and to ultimately feel safe again.
Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers
High profile acts of violence, particularly in schools, can confuse and frighten children who may feel in danger or worry that their friends or loved-ones are at risk. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears.
- Reassure children that they are safe.
- Make time to talk.
- Keep your explanations developmentally appropriate.
- Review safety procedures.
- Observe children’s emotional state.
- Limit television viewing of these events
- Maintain a normal routine.
Evidence-Based Videos About Coping and Mental Health
A series of free, evidence-based video and print resources that caregivers and educators can use to teach their kids critical mental health and coping skills. The project was born of an innovative partnership between the state of California and the Child Mind Institute.
- Understanding Feelings: Students will learn that better understanding and recognizing their emotions can be an important first step toward healthy coping and deeper relationships.
- Relaxation Skills: Students will learn specific relaxation skills, such as paced breathing, that they can use when experiencing intense or uncomfortable emotions.
- Understanding Thoughts: Students will learn about connections between their thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how they can change thinking patterns to make them more helpful.
- Managing Intense Emotions: Students will learn to recognize and manage intense emotions without giving in to the urge to act in impulsive ways that can make problems bigger.
