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Children will want to know what this means to them, are they safe, will they be protected, are their loved ones safe? They need to be reassured that they and their family are safe, that they are loved and that this will not happen to them. Extra time and attention will be soothing.
Parents need to spend time listening to the child's fears, anger and sadness. It is okay to share your own feelings of sadness, anger and loss. If you are feeling particularly anxious and fearful, that should be shared with another adult. Children will take their cues from your response.
Children may be angry that this has happened. This is a normal response. Let them know that the President, the army and the police are all doing their best to make sure this never happens again.
Children may develop some temporary symptoms of stress. This may include: trouble separating (bedtime and school), clinginess, nightmares, bedwetting, whining, tearfulness etc. Any change in your child's ordinary behaviors may indicate the level of stress that they are feeling. As long as these are short lived, it is not a sign of more serious problems. Should these symptoms persist, parents should consider speaking with their primary care provider or a mental health professional.
In situations like this, parents and children often feel helpless. Some suggestions for alleviating that feeling can be working as a family to:
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