The news can be frightening and overwhelming for all of us. For children, it can be particularly so. It is important to talk to kids about big events like natural disasters or terrorist attacks in an age-appropriate manner so that they know what is going on. Children are exposed to the news whether or not you talk to them about current events, so it's better that parents talk to kids rather than trying to protect them from traumatic events like terrorist acts or natural disasters by not talking to them about it. You can help calm their fears by answering their questions honestly.
Websites
Sesame Street "Caring for Each Other": Check out Sesame Street's initiative Caring for Each Other has videos, games, and articles to help parents and children through the COVID-19 health crisis.
Best News Sources for Kids: This website includes a list of age-appropriate new sources for kids. Parents can use these kid-friendly new sources as a way to discuss the news and being a critical consumer with their child.
Anxiety over School Shootings: With today's prevalence of school shootings, many families worry about the safety of their children at school. This article gives some tips on how to help parents and children cope with anxiety around school shootings.
Books to help children cope during the coronavirus pandemic: Although this list of book recommendations was created to help kids through the Coronavirus pandemic, the books on identifying and processing hard feelings, staying connected to loved ones while distanced, and finding comfort during hardship and uncertainty can apply to other mass tragedies and natural disasters.
Dr. Amanda Heins gives tips on how you can help school-aged kids cope during the COVID-19 crisis.
