How Do You Explain Tragedies Like Mass Shootings to Kids? 5 Important Tips From a Psychiatrist by Dr. Monisha Vasa

Parenting
a month ago

How Do You Explain Tragedies Like Mass Shootings to Kids? 5 Important Tips From a Psychiatrist

Discussing tragedies such as school shootings and other mass shootings with your children can be challenging. The most important thing is to consider the age, temperament and maturity level of your child, and provide information accordingly. 

Here are some things to consider when talking to kids about tragedies like mass and school shootings:  

  • Don't alarm them beyond what's needed.
  • Limit their exposure to media.
  • Maintain routines that help children feel secure.
  • Provide plenty of time and opportunity for your children to express their feelings and questions.
  • It is OK to let them know that you don't have all of the answers, but that you will always do your best to protect them and keep them safe.

Your child’s fears may manifest in changes in sleep, appetite and behavior. Tuning into subtle shifts can help you understand if your child is struggling, and whether they need more mental health support.

Note: The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community, and follow us on Facebook to get inspiration in your newsfeed daily. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Can You Learn Anything From the Tragedy in Las Vegas? Yes, the Answer Comes From Within

Talking to Kids About War & Tragedy Is Hard: 5 Things Parents Can Do to Help Their Children

Kids & Tragedy: 5 Compassionate Tips to Help Children Cope With Tragedies Like School Shootings

Moms Demand Action & Gun Violence in America: Are YOU Ready to Take Action?

Elisa Schmitz
Thank you for these helpful words during troubling times, Dr. Monisha Vasa ! ❤️
Meredith Schneider
Thank you for sharing this Dr. Monisha Vasa . So helped me answer the questions my 8yr old daughter was asking this afternoon. Tragedies like this leave me speechless and hurts my heart to know parents lost their children.
Kim Kusiciel
Thank you for this. It's so unbelievably sad. I had to answer some tough questions for my 9 and 11-year-olds today and I responded "I don't know" after a few of them. Thank you again @monishavasa.
Ann Marie Patitucci
Thanks, Dr. Monisha Vasa .We need all the help we can get during these difficult times!
Julie Rose
How sad that we need this information yet again, thank you.

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Happy International Women’s Day: Celebrating Women's Achievement & Driving Gender Equality

Volunteering: Gain Marketable Jobs Skills Through Helping Others!