How To Talk to Children About Shootings: An Age-by-Age Guide

How to talk to children about shootings

By E.Baloyo , Parent Herald Apr 07, 01:00 am

Photo: (Photo : BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI / Getty Images)

The rise of gun violence has become a significant concern for many parents. Children are exposed to news coverage of shootings, school lockdowns, and active shooter drills.

For parents, talking about gun violence with children can be a challenging and emotionally charged topic.

However, having these conversations is essential to helping children understand the dangers of gun violence and how to stay safe. This article will provide an age-by-age guide on how to talk to children about shootings.

To Alleviate Anxiety, Discuss Gun Violence with Children

According to Child Mind, parents should not be afraid to talk about gun violence with their children. Avoiding the topic can actually make it scarier for children, who may have already heard about shootings through the media or from peers.

By initiating a conversation, parents can address any anxiety their child may be feeling and answer any questions they may have.

Reassure your child that school shootings are rare, and remind them that safety drills are in place to keep them safe. If you are unsure about what to say, ask your child if they have any questions.

Tips for Discussing School Shootings with Children

Before diving into the age-specific tips, here are four additional tips to keep in mind when discussing gun violence with children, as recommended by Parents:

Give assurance to your kids that you are keeping them safe

Let your child know that your primary responsibility is to keep them safe. Explain the steps you are taking to ensure their safety, such as school lockdown drills, talking to teachers and school administrators, and seeking help from law enforcement when needed.

2. Allow your kids to express their thoughts and feelings

Encourage your child to ask questions and share their thoughts and feelings. Actively listen to what they have to say while also making an effort to grasp their point of view.

3. Be the primary source of information

Limit your child's exposure to news coverage of shootings and gun violence. Be the primary source of information for your child.

4. Make your explanation age-appropriate

Be mindful of your child's age and development level when discussing gun violence. Use age-appropriate language, and avoid overwhelming them with too much information.

How To Talk to Children About Shootings Based on Age

Explaining to children more about the threat of gun violence or the experience of a school shooting can be very challenging, especially with a young mind. Therefore, here are a few recommendations from TODAY.

For teens: encourage them to be part of the solutions

Teens are at an age where they are aware of the world around them and can understand complex issues. They may have already formed their own opinions about gun violence. Encourage them to think critically about the issue and look for solutions. Discuss the importance of voting and getting involved in advocacy groups.

2. For tween: create a safe space

Tweens may have a lot of questions about gun violence and may feel scared or anxious. Listen to their feelings and validate their concerns. Reassure them that their safety is a top priority, and discuss the steps their school and community are taking to keep them safe.

3. For elementary school kids: minimize exposure

Elementary school children may not understand the complexities of gun violence. Shield them from news coverage and explain that guns can hurt people. Reassure them that their school and home are safe places, and practice safety drills so they know what to do in an emergency.

4. For preschool-kindergarten kids: short story

For preschoolers and kindergarteners, keep it simple. Use a one-sentence story to explain that guns can hurt people, and that the police are there to help keep us safe. Give them reassurance that they are loved and that they are safe.

Discussing gun violence with children can be challenging, but it's essential to keep them safe and informed. Remember, as parents, our primary responsibility is to keep our children safe, and having these conversations is a crucial step in achieving that goal.