Helping Children Cope With Tragedy
People of all ages are struggling to comprehend the shootings that took place recently in Newtown, Conn. In particular, children and teens are likely struggling to make sense of the things they are seeing and hearing regarding the tragedy on television, at school, and among their peers. Many children will have questions and be in need of additional comfort in the coming days and weeks. San Diego County Library has put together a list of resources that parents can use to help answer questions and reassure children of their safety and comfort.
Books
SDCL has a variety of titles that can be used to help parents, care-givers and educators as they talk with children. Click on any of the books below to locate a copy or request one to be sent to your branch.
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| Bad Stuff in the News: A Guide to Handling the Headlines | Don't Despair on Thursdays! The Children's Grief-Management Book | When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death |
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| Badger's Parting Gifts | Let's Talk: Sharing Thoughts and Feelings During Times of Crisis | Why? |
More suggested titles for adults & teens »
More suggested titles for children »
The following videos and online resources can provide additional assistance for parents and children coping with the recent tragedy.
Videos
County of San Diego: Talking to Children About the Conn. Tragedy
Mr. Rogers: Helping Children With Scary News
Sesame Street: G is for Grief
Online Resources
County of San Diego:
Talking to Children about the Conn. Tragedy
The County of San Diego operates the Access and Crisis Line seven days a week, 24 hours a day, where people can get help for issues such as depression, anxiety, anger, or other mental health challenges. The telephone number is (888)724-7240.
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry:
Talking to Children about Community Violence
American Psychological Association:
Reacting to the Sandy Hook Elementary Shooting
Kids Health:
School Violence and the News / La Violencia en la Escuela y las Noticias
KPBS's Arthur:
Helping our Children Feel Safe
National Association of School Psychologists
Provides various resources for teachers and parents and "Talking to Children about Violence" tip sheets in several languages.
National Child Traumatic Stress Network:
Talking to Children About Mass Violence
National Institute of Mental Health:
Helping Children and Adolescents Cope with Violence and Disasters
The New York Times Health Section:
Tips for Talking to Children about the Shooting
Teachers First:
Resources for School Violence