How to Talk to Your Children About School Violence & Safety

Dear Parents,

 

We have had some parents ask questions about how to talk to their children about the school shooting in Nashville. As we all grapple with this tragic event, we want to remind you that your children may have questions or concerns about school safety and violence. As educators and caregivers, it's important that we provide a safe and supportive environment for our students, and that includes having honest and age-appropriate conversations about difficult topics like school shootings.

 

 

 

At this age, children are just beginning to understand the world around them. They may have heard about the shooting or seen images on TV or social media. It's important to keep the conversation simple and reassure them that they are safe. You can say something like, "Sometimes people do bad things, but the police and grown-ups are here to keep us safe." Focus on the positive helpers in their life, like police officers and teachers, and let them know they can always come to you with any questions or concerns.

 

 

Children in this age group may have more questions and concerns about the shooting. They may also have more exposure to media coverage and conversations among peers. It's important to give them accurate information and listen to their feelings. You can say something like, "Sometimes people choose to hurt others, but it's very rare, and there are many people working to keep us safe." Reassure them that schools have safety protocols in place and that their teachers and parents are there to protect them.

 

 

Older children may have a more complex understanding of the event and may want to talk about issues related to gun violence and mental health. Allow teenagers to process their feelings, but they may also expect more; they may want to discuss questions like “What are we doing about this?” It's important to have open and honest conversations with them while also respecting their maturity level. You can say something like, "This is a very difficult and complex issue, and there are many different opinions and viewpoints. It's important to have conversations and work together to find solutions." Teach them to speak up if they see or hear something that doesn't seem right and remind them of the safety measures and lockdown procedures the school has in place that are designed to protect them. 

 

We know that these conversations can be difficult, but they're also essential to helping our children feel safe and supported. Please feel free to contact us if you have any concerns or questions.

 

Sincerely,

 

Crystal Marshall

Social Worker, GVA North