12/16/2025
If you’re struggling to talk to your child about the heartbreaking shootings that took place over the weekend at Brown University and in Australia, you’re not alone. Here are five thoughtful, age-appropriate ways to talk with your child about traumatic news events—and help them feel safe:
1. Start by listening, not explaining
Ask gentle, open-ended questions like, “What have you heard?” or “How are you feeling about it?” This gives your child space to share worries or misconceptions. Listen calmly without interrupting or correcting right away—feeling heard is the first step to feeling safe.
2. Keep explanations simple and honest
Use clear, age-appropriate language and avoid graphic details. You don’t need to have all the answers. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know why this happened, but I do know that many adults are working to keep people safe.” Honest reassurance builds trust.
3. Reassure them about their own safety
Children often personalize scary news. Gently remind them of the protections in their daily lives—parents, teachers, school safety plans, and community helpers. Emphasize what makes their world safe right now, without making promises you can’t guarantee.
4. Limit repeated exposure to the news
Constant headlines, videos, and social media can heighten anxiety, especially for younger kids. Consider turning off the news when children are nearby and checking in about what they’re seeing online. Let them know they can always come to you with questions.
5. Offer comfort and coping tools
Strong emotions may show up as clinginess, trouble sleeping, or irritability. Maintain routines, encourage play and creativity, and model healthy coping—deep breathing, going for a walk, or talking things through. Let your child know it’s okay to feel scared or sad, and that they’re not alone.
Talking about tragic events is never easy, but calm, caring conversations can help children feel supported and secure—even in an uncertain world.
