The school shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, is the latest horrifying act of violence in our country.

This senseless loss of life will be difficult for adults to process on their own while trying to support children and young people. Our students want and need to talk about what they see, remember, and are feeling now; they need the guidance and safety of adults in their lives to be able to navigate their own emotions and trauma in a healthy, safe, and productive way. Adults need to be able to acknowledge and address their own emotional responses in order to best support young people.

Recognizing and Honoring Big Feelings

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) tips for parents and educators to talk with children about violence suggests adults:

• Reassure children they are safe and review safety procedures
• Create a sense of safety by returning to normal, predictable routines as soon as possible
• Make time to talk and listen to the concerns and feelings of children
• Limit the use of media consumption of these events to lower their stress and to maintain balance and perspective
• Acknowledge that sleep difficulties are common and can lead to fatigue and poor participation

Learn more.