Whenever a tragedy occurs, children may be confused or frightened. Most likely they will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react.  Parents and school personnel can help children cope first and foremost by establishing a sense of safety and security. Adults can continue to help children work through their questions and emotions.

What Parents Can Do:

1.       Focus on your children over the week following the tragedy.  Tell them you love them and everything will be okay. Try to help them understand what has happened, keeping in mind their developmental level.

2.       Make time to talk with your children and determine what you wish to say.

3.       Stay close to your children. Your physical presence will reassure them and give you the opportunity to monitor their reaction and feel safe. 

4.       Limit your child’s exposure to these events. 

5.       Maintain a “normal” routine. Children may have a hard time concentrating on schoolwork or falling asleep at night.

6.       Spend extra time reading or playing quiet games with your children.  These activities are calming and foster a sense of closeness and security.

7.       Safeguard your children’s physical health.  Stress can take a physical toll on children as well as adults.  Make sure your children get appropriate sleep, exercise, and nutrition.

8.       Consider sharing thoughts for the victims and their families. 

9.       Schools are a good place for children to regain a sense of normalcy.  Being with their friends and teachers can help.  Schools should also have a plan for making counseling available to children and adults who need it. 

Visit NASP’s website at www.nasponline.org for additional resources.