Talking to Children About Terrorist Attacks and School and Community Shootings in the News

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This resource offers guidelines for talking to kids about attacks, focusing on age-appropriate conversations that promote understanding and reduce fear. It suggests explaining events in simple terms, reassuring safety measures, and validating emotions. For younger children, using familiar examples like "helping firefighters" aids comprehension. Older children benefit from open discussions, validating their feelings, and providing accurate information to dispel misconceptions. It advises limiting media exposure and monitoring reactions to tailor support. Key points include listening actively, maintaining routines, and emphasizing community support and resilience. The guide aims to empower adults with effective communication strategies during challenging situations involving attacks.

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Tags

Focus Area: Violence

Audiences: Behavioral Health Professionals; Families & Children; Schools & Childcare Providers

Emergency Management Stages: Response; Recovery; Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Child Guidance; Communication; Counseling; Crisis Intervention; Disasters; Parent-Child Relations; Terrorism; Coping Skills; Mass Shooting Events

Institutions: Children's Hospital Los Angeles

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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