Parents across the nation had to sit down with their children on
Friday afternoon and explain a deadly mass shooting inside a
Connecticut elementary school. In such tragic moments that are
hard for even adults to understand, many parents could find
themselves unprepared to comfort their children. The National
Association of School Psychologists has created a list of tips
for parents on how to deal with national tragedy. Here are the
NASP's tips: - Model calm and control. NASP experts say children
take their emotional cues from the adults in their lives. Adults
should try to avoid appearing anxious or frightened. - Reassure
children that they and their loved ones are safe. The NASP says
parents can point out specific reasons why they are safe from
danger. - Remind them that trustworthy people are in charge. The
NASP suggests telling children about the various government
officials, such as police, who are working to ensure that no
other tragedies occur. - Tell children it is okay to feel upset.
NASP experts say