Over the past several years,school shootingshave become more frequent and more deadly.
Most schools regularly conduct lockdown drills during which students simulate hiding from an active shooter.
Many parents feel confused or nervous abouthow to talk about these issues with their children.
Gradyreese / Getty Images
You’ll also find a list of resources for further help and information.
By this definition, children who were present during a school shooting have experienced trauma.
In one study, nearly 25% of participants reported being significantly affected by media depictions of violence.
Parents should also be cognizant of their news and media consumption.
Remember that it is OK to disengage if you are not gaining useful information.
This can be a difficult or scary topic because parents and guardians are often unsure what to say.
Elementary-age children tend to thinkconcretelyand literally, so keep this in mind when talking with them.
Help them identify safe and healthy ways to explore their identity andfeel in controlof their environment.
ensure they know what behaviors are OK and not OK without shaming them.
High School
Rafferty recommends encouraging teens to use their voices to make changes.
Encourage [them] to write to their elected officials."
2017;6(1).
2020;117(38):23484-23489. doi:10.1073/pnas.2000804117
Health Affairs.After school shootings, children and communities struggle to heal.
