Helping Children Deal with Shootings and Other Bad News
Helping Children Deal with Shootings and Other Bad News
RESOURCES FOR ADULTS TO FIND THE WORDS AND MANAGE THE FEARS
It can be difficult to know how to help children process the news they may be hearing and seeing about random acts of violence. How do we help them feel safe? How much should we tell them? The following links offer helpful strategies from well-respected national organizations and leaders, including the expert on childhood feelings, Mr. Rogers.
BOOKS TO USE WITH CHILDREN
These books, owned by the D.C. Public Library, may be helpful in addressing the “why” questions and offering comfort.
Preschool-Third Grade 4th – 7th Grades
AFTER THE QUESTIONS…BACK TO CHILDHOOD
When the questions have been addressed, it is quite possible that children who are not in the immediate vicinity of the violence will want life to return to “normal.” They may want to snuggle with a parent and a familiar book, one that feels like an old friend. Your child may prefer adventure, fairy tales, humor or “how things work.” Older children may find comfort in fantasy, where good triumphs over evil. Here is a sampling of suggestions. For more ideas for your child, please talk to one of our children’s librarians or visit our children’s page: http://dclibrary.org/kids/booklists
Pre-School to 1st Grade 2nd – 3rd Grade 4th – 7th grade
It can be difficult to know how to help children process the news they may be hearing and seeing about random acts of violence. How do we help them feel safe? How much should we tell them? The following links offer helpful strategies from well-respected national organizations and leaders, including the expert on childhood feelings, Mr. Rogers.
- Fred Rogers Talks about Tragic Events in the News
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Talking to Children about the Shooting
- Growing Up Brave: Expert Strategies for Helping Your Child Overcome Fear, Stress and Anxiety
BOOKS TO USE WITH CHILDREN
These books, owned by the D.C. Public Library, may be helpful in addressing the “why” questions and offering comfort.
Preschool-Third Grade 4th – 7th Grades
AFTER THE QUESTIONS…BACK TO CHILDHOOD
When the questions have been addressed, it is quite possible that children who are not in the immediate vicinity of the violence will want life to return to “normal.” They may want to snuggle with a parent and a familiar book, one that feels like an old friend. Your child may prefer adventure, fairy tales, humor or “how things work.” Older children may find comfort in fantasy, where good triumphs over evil. Here is a sampling of suggestions. For more ideas for your child, please talk to one of our children’s librarians or visit our children’s page: http://dclibrary.org/kids/booklists
Pre-School to 1st Grade 2nd – 3rd Grade 4th – 7th grade