Nine Tips to Consider When Speaking to Your Children About School Shootings

In the wake of the tragic school shooting in Wisconsin, many parents are grappling with how to address the event with their children. These conversations can feel overwhelming, but it’s essential to provide reassurance, age-appropriate information, and emotional support. Here’s a guide on how to talk to your kids about school shootings.

1. Create a Safe Space for Discussion
Before starting the conversation, make sure your child feels emotionally and physically safe. Choose a calm environment where they can feel heard and comfortable asking questions.

2. Ask What They Already Know
Children may hear about shootings through friends, social media, or the news. Understanding their perspective allows you to address misconceptions and offer age-appropriate clarification.

3. Be Honest and Age-Appropriate

Tailor the conversation to your child’s age and emotional maturity. For younger kids, limit details and focus on safety. Older kids and teens may need more in-depth discussions.

• School-age children: “Something very sad happened at a school far away. People are working hard to make sure schools are safe.”
• Older children/teens: “Sadly, there was a shooting at a school in Wisconsin and people were hurt. I want you to know we’re here for you.”

4. Validate Their Feelings
Children might feel scared, confused, or sad. Let them know it’s okay to express emotions and their feelings are valid.

5. Reassure Them About Their Safety
Children may worry that something similar could happen to them or their loved ones. Share the steps that schools and communities take to keep them safe.

6. Limit Media Exposure
Constant exposure to news and images can increase anxiety, stress, or trauma. Monitor their media consumption and encourage breaks from news coverage. For school-age children or younger, make sure they’re not being exposed to graphic or violent images on electronic devices or television.

7. Empower Them to Take Action
Helping others or feeling proactive can provide children with a sense of control. Discuss ways they can contribute to kindness, safety, and community support.

Examples:

• Supporting anti-bullying initiatives at school.
• Participating in community events to promote inclusion.
• Writing letters of encouragement to affected communities.

8. Watch for Signs of Anxiety or Distress
Be aware of changes in your child’s behavior, such as changes in sleep or eating, clinginess, irritability, or withdrawal. If these persist, consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional.

9. Keep the Conversation Going
Check in regularly to see how your child is processing their feelings, and remind them you’re always available to talk through their experiences.

Talking about school shootings is one of the most challenging conversations parents can face, but offering love, support, and reassurance can help kids process these tragic events.

If you or your child need additional support, reach out to licensed mental health professionals, teachers, or community resources, like Jackson Behavioral Health Hospital, the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call 988), or The National Child Traumatic Stress Network.

To learn more about Jackson Behavioral Health’s services, call 305-355-7147 or visit JacksonBehavioralHealth.org.