19/12/2025
Really helpful podcast episode for parents given recent Bondi Shootings - thank you 🙏 .happens talking with Talking to children about traumatic events is one of the hardest parts of parenting, *especially* when the news is everywhere and details feel overwhelming.
In this bonus mini-episode of Prepared, Not Scared, Sarah is joined by child psychologist Deirdre Brandner to talk about how to support children living in Australia after the distressing events in Bondi, without frightening them or giving more information than they need.
We unpack:
▶︎ Why children don’t need to witness an event to be affected
▶︎ How to start the conversation using age-appropriate language
▶︎ What to say (and what not to say) when kids have big feelings
▶︎ Why routines, reassurance and predictability matter so much
▶︎ How to keep communication open without over-exposing children
You don’t need the perfect words.
You just need to be calm, honest and available.
📌 It’s important to note that although this may be a rare event for Australians, we acknowledge that this is most definitely not the case for other countries.
🎧 Listen to the bonus mini-episode now
Save this for later, or share it with a parent who might need it.
Mental Health & Crisis Support
Lifeline: 13 11 14
24/7 crisis support for adults and parents feeling overwhelmed, anxious or distressed.
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Support for anxiety, stress and low mood, including guidance for supporting children.
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
For children and young people aged 5–25 years. Also offers webchat and email support.
Headspace/eheadspace
Mental health support for young people aged 12–25 years, available in centres and online.
