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How to talk to your child about a traumatic event

PITTSBURGH — If your child is a witness to a mass casualty shooting or knows someone who was, it might be time to address the issue head on and talk about the trauma.

Some children express their emotions when confronted with a stressful situation and others don’t.

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Whatever the case, parents should be prepared to talk and, most importantly, listen to their children.

Social worker Juan Moore suggests parents continue to talk with their children about what happened for several days or weeks after the incident.

>>RELATED STORY: What we know about victims killed at Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh

“Even if you think your child is alright, there can be a delayed response,” Moore said.

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Here are some tips from the American Psychological Association for dealing with children and trauma:

  • Think about what you want to say. Some advanced planing may make the discussion easier.
  • Find out what they know. For example, there was a shooting at a school or a bomb set off in another country. Ask them "What have you heard about this?" And then listen.
  • Tell the truth. Lay out the facts at a level they can understand. You do not need to give graphic details.
  • Sometimes the answer to the question is "I don't know. "Why did the bad people do this?" "I don't know."
  • Above all, reassure. At the end of the conversation, reassure your children that you will work to keep them safe and to watch out for them. Be available to answer any questions or talk about this topic again in the future. Reassure them that they are loved.

The Children's Museum of Pittsburgh posted on its Facebook page that:

"this is a very emotional time and the images and sentiments seen in the media can be frightening and overwhelming for children. We would like the museum to serve as a safe place where families can gather, express their feelings and be creative. One of the values of play is that it can be very healing, for children and parents alike."

Because of that, the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh is offering free admission to the community from Monday, October 29, through Friday, November 2.

We would like to express our deepest sorrow to all affected by today’s tragedy at the Tree of Life Congregation in...

Posted by Children's Museum of Pittsburgh on Saturday, October 27, 2018
 

Cox Media Group

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