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MSD Washington Township

Every Panther, Every Day – Connected | Challenged | Celebrated

Talking to Kids about Tragedies

Overview

 

Helping children and adolescents understand and cope with tragic events, such as community violence, natural disasters, or mass shootings, is a critical part of supporting their social-emotional well-being. Adults play an essential role in these conversations by providing accurate information, emotional reassurance, and developmentally appropriate guidance that aligns with the child's age and level of understanding. Research and expert guidance emphasize being honest without sharing unnecessary details, limiting exposure to repetitive news coverage, and creating opportunities for ongoing dialogue in a calm and supportive environment. Caregivers can also monitor changes in behavior that may signal stress or anxiety and seek professional support when needed. The resources below are curated from national public health agencies, child development organizations, and mental health experts to help caregivers tailor conversations to children from early childhood through high school.

 

 

 

 

National Child Traumatic Stress Network – Talking with Children When Scary Things Happen
Audience: All ages (with guidance sorted by age groups)

American Academy of Pediatrics — How to Talk With Kids About Tragedies & Other Traumatic News Events
Audience: PreK through high school

Child Mind Institute — Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic Event
Audience: All ages, Spanish resources available

ZERO TO THREE — Supporting Families: Young Children and Gun Violence
Audience: Infants and early childhood (0–5)

PBS Kids & Sesame Street — Resources for Talking About Tragic Events
Audience: Early childhood through elementary, Spanish resources available

 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

  • Children often hear about tragic events from peers, social media, or the news, even when adults try to shield them. Having calm, supportive conversations helps reduce fear, correct misinformation, and reinforces that trusted adults are available to help them feel safe and supported.

  • Share information that is honest, simple, and developmentally appropriate. Answer the questions your child asks without providing unnecessary details. If you are unsure how much to say, start small and let your child’s questions guide the conversation.

  • Some children process events internally or express emotions through behavior, play, or creative activities. Let your child know you are available to talk whenever they are ready, and continue to check in gently over time.

  • Focus on what you can promise: adult support, safety measures in place, and the presence of helpers in the community. Avoid statements like “This will never happen again.” Instead, emphasize preparedness and care.

    • Use simple language and short explanations.
    • Reassure them that they are safe and cared for.
    • Name feelings and normalize emotional reactions.
    • Maintain routines to support a sense of security.
    • Limit exposure to news or adult conversations about the event.

    • Ask what they already know and correct misinformation.
    • Provide basic facts without graphic details.
    • Encourage expression through drawing, writing, or play.
    • Highlight helpers (first responders, teachers, community members).
    • Monitor for changes in behavior or increased anxiety.
    • Support older elementary students in understanding social media use and misinformation
       

    • Expect deeper questions and stronger emotions.
    • Validate feelings and encourage open discussion.
    • Help them distinguish between real risk and perceived danger.
    • Discuss social media use and misinformation.
    • Encourage healthy coping strategies and peer support.

    • Engage in two-way conversations and listen actively.
    • Acknowledge complex emotions, including anger or helplessness.
    • Encourage balanced media consumption and self-care.
    • Support constructive ways to help or take action.
    • Reinforce access to school counselors, school social workers and mental health resources.

  • Yes. Repeated exposure to distressing images or commentary can increase anxiety for children and teens. Consider watching or reading news together, checking in about what they are seeing online, and setting reasonable limits.

  • Consider seeking support if your child shows:

    • Ongoing sleep difficulties or nightmares
    • Significant changes in mood or behavior
    • Withdrawal from activities or relationships
    • Trouble concentrating or increased irritability
    • Physical complaints without a clear cause

    School counselors, school social workers, and community mental health professionals can provide guidance and support.

  • Your school and district are here to support families. You may contact your child’s school counselor, school social worker, or administrator, or use the trusted national resources listed on this page for additional guidance.