The last few days have featured horror--both in Boston and West, Texas. When turning on the news to find out the weather, it's amazing how breaking news can blast it's way into our living rooms--and our children's awareness. The vivid pictures and detailed analysis can prove overwhelming, especially for young minds. When tragedy strikes, parents can help their children process.
First, reiterate security. Make concrete and clear that you are here to protect your children and will do so. Though, as adults we are aware of all we can't control, our children need to be able to count on us. The reassurance of our presence and our focus makes a huge difference to our children's sense of security. Statements such as, "I will take care of you," offer this reassurance. For older children, offer age-appropriate answers for their questions. When information is scant, people often imagine the worst. Allowing our children to ask questions and giving them the information they can handle helps quell their fears. For the information that's too much, simply say,"People who know best are handling that. You don't need to worry."

Second, give children a focus--praying for the wounded, gathering donations, or writing cards are a few of the kid-sized outreaches that can make a difference for our children and the victims. When we offer children a way to reach out, we give a measure of control they can take to do something positive. Good medicine.

Finally, restrict the viewing. Children--especially younger ones--can't distinguish what is happening across the country from what is happening down the street. The fires of West, Texas seem next door. While we may want to remain riveted for the latest details, most likely not much will change between dinner and after children head to bed. Get your news when they can't hear the grisly details.
When tragedy strikes, our children's security can take a hit. As parents, we must be on the front lines to help our children process the events within the context of our protection and love.


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