After a gunman killed at least 19 students and two teachers Tuesday at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas, this week, horrified parents may be wondering how to talk with their children about it. From toddlers to teenagers to young adults, children look to their parents for security, especially in the wake of the recent school mass shootings in the United States. Talking to your children about the Texas School Shooting Tragedy
The American Psychological Association (APA) gives some recommendations for managing these discussions and assisting children in coping with their sorrow following traumatic situations.
In a news release, the APA stated that reassuring people begins with asking about their worries and concerns. Your children need to know that you are actively listening to them. What you say to your child is influenced by their age.
When talking to your children about the Texas school shooting tragedy, try to bring up the subject when your child is in a natural stress-free setting. Introduce the topic when they’re most likely to pay attention, such as in the car, during dinner, or right before bedtime. Inquire about their well-being, how they may be feeling.
Don’t interrupt them when they express themselves. Listen for any erroneous facts or perceptions and gently correct them. The American Psychological Association (APA) encourages parents to voice their thoughts without criticizing those of their children, and to agree to disagree when their viewpoints differ.
Make security a priority, and share what schools and communities are doing to improve safety. Remind your children that you are there to look after them and protect them.
Assist in keeping your own house secure, knowing that it is a safe haven for your children. Make it a haven for your kids to discover the calm and comfort they need. Consider organizing a night where the entire family can join in a favorite activity.
But don’t stop there: check in with your children on a regular basis to see how they’re doing. Extra time, attention, patience, and hugs should be given.
Be on the lookout for signs of anxiety, fear, or stress. Fear, shock, anger, grief, and anxiety are common after a traumatic event, according to the APA.
Your children’s behavior may reveal warning flags. They may have difficulties sleeping, concentrating on schoolwork or household tasks, or experiencing changes in appetite and mood. If no further stressful events occur, these should start to fade in four to six weeks.
Encourage your children to talk about or journal about their feelings, or to express them through art.
Keep an eye out for any information they may receive. Adult discussions should be monitored, and time spent viewing the news or gathering information online should be limited. Discuss what your children have seen or read with them.
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reference: https://medicalxpress.com/
Talking to your children about the Texas School Shooting Tragedy
