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Research from the non-partisan group Everytown for Gun Safety reveals there have “been more than 300 school shootings in America – an average of about one a week” since 2013. The in-depth findings can be read here at the Analysis of School Shootings.
As a parent – it’s vital to discuss school shootings with your child. When your child hears about a school gunman or watches the awful images of students running or hiding in “lockdown” in the media, they can’t help but wonder if they will be next?
The American Psychological Association suggests these guidelines:
Talk to your children: Trauma psychologists advise parents to use the disturbing stories of school shootings as an platform to discuss what may seem as “unthinkable.” Psychologists say:
- Be honest with your school aged.
- Acknowledge that bad and evil things do happen.
- Reassure them that adults are doing everything possible to make their environments safe.
- Elementary aged children may express their fears through play or drawings.
- Adolescents are more likely to communicate fears and feelings with their friends through social media. It’s good for them to vent and discuss trauma with their peers, but as a parent make it a priority to have a real face-to-face conversation with them as well.
Monitor exposure: It’s great to be informed but do it in doses. Research indicates some young children believe the events are happening over and over with each replay of the same news clip — so you’ll want to monitor what they’re seeing. Be mindful that the constant images of lockdowns, and school shootings in the news may cause depression.
Look for warning signs: Psychologist say most children and adolescents are resilient and will return to their normal everyday activities. But be on the lookout for signs of anxiety or depression.
Some common (but not all) signs include:
- change in school performance
- relationships with friends or teachers become strained or altered
- headaches
- stomachaches
- nightmares
- sleeplessness
- loss of appetite
- excessive worry and sudden loss of interest in sports or hobbies they used to enjoy
If your child is experiencing any of the above seek help with a school counselor or any other licensed mental help professional.
We’ve comprised a list of questions which may aide you in talking with your school aged child or teen about this difficult topic. Questions for School Aged Kids & Teens