Florida Shooting: Dr. Daniel Amen's Advice to Parents on How to Talk to Kids About the Mass Shooting Headlines Parenting

Dr. Daniel Amen is a psychiatrist, neuroscientist and 10-time "New York Times" bestselling author who has appeared on "The Dr. Oz Show" and "Dr. Phil." Dr. Amen responded to the school shooting in Parkland, Fla., and offers parents advice on how to discuss school violence with their children:

“It’s very important to talk to your kids about the reports of today’s school shooting they may be seeing on the news, especially if they express concern or fear,” says Dr. Amen. “For older kids, parents should feel free to answer any questions they may have and listen to their feelings. For younger kids, try to keep it short and avoid emotional rabbit trails. Turn off the TV. Don’t be like most Americans who watch traumas over and over. If they start to struggle with nightmares, help them finish the dreams in a more positive way, assuring them that they are safe with you, their parents."

Dr. Amen says it should not be a child’s burden to worry about and fear things they cannot control, but as adults, we should have a plan in case disaster strikes. "Parents should be able to say to their children, ‘If something bad happens at school – do this and do that. If someone at school tells you they are having violent or suicidal thoughts, ALWAYS tell parents about it, even if the kids tell you not to.’ These types of conversations will leave children with a sense of preparedness, which in turns provides comfort as they try and make sense of what they see on the news and hear about from their friends.”

Learn more about Dr. Daniel Amen at DanielAmenMD.com.