Navigating conversations with children about difficult news events can be difficult for parents and teachers. By approaching these conversations with empathy, openness, and reassurance, parents can provide children with the guidance and comfort they need during difficult times.
Below are guiding principles that can help ease these discussions, along with recommended resources for additional support:
Advice for Different Age Groups
Younger Students
- Children in this age group often need reassurance rather than detailed explanations. Keep language simple, focusing on safety and support.
- If they are aware of the news, reassure them that the adults in their community work very hard and do their best to protect them and keep them safe.
- Keep in mind children read our cues—our anxiety and our worries. Try to stay calm and confident as you speak with your children.
- Resource: Child Mind Institute, “Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic Event”
Older Students
- Normalize Feelings: Let students know that it’s okay to feel upset, confused, or anxious.
- Set Boundaries on Media Exposure: For older children, discuss being mindful of social media content, as rumors or misinformation can cause added stress.
- Provide Clear, Honest Information: Children at this stage may ask more direct questions and need honest answers, but without too much detail. Let them know that sometimes adults make poor choices, and when that happens, the school takes steps to protect students. Emphasize the school’s commitment to safety and well-being.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Allow children to talk at their own pace, knowing they may process or discuss these topics in their own time. Older children may have heard rumors or seen social media posts. Encourage open conversation, answer questions directly, and discuss the importance of boundaries and respect in relationships. Remind them to identify a trusted adult on campus that they can talk to—whether a teacher, advisor, or counselor.
Resources
For older students, these resources offer age-appropriate guidance for understanding sensitive topics like misconduct, while promoting clarity, empowerment, and safety:
Common Sense Media
Offers articles and discussion guides for teens on navigating difficult topics, including trauma and boundaries in relationships. They provide age-specific advice for fostering open dialogue.
RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)
RAINN offers guides for teens to help them understand boundaries, consent, and the importance of safe relationships. They also provide information for caregivers and educators on how to discuss sensitive topics related to misconduct and safety.
The Child Mind Institute
Provides advice for parents and educators on guiding teens through difficult conversations about trauma and setting appropriate boundaries. Articles on this site also address how to support teenagers who may encounter difficult news or situations.
The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP)
Offers information on helping adolescents process traumatic events, with guidance on behaviors to expect, managing stress, and creating safe spaces for dialogue.
Stop It Now!
This organization has resources focused on educating teens about healthy relationships and understanding appropriate boundaries. Their site includes tips for parents, educators, and students on how to recognize and respond to boundary violations and misconduct.
The National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)
– Reacting to a Traumatic Event
– Resources Related to Teen Sexual Assault
Help Guide, “Quick Stress Relief”
Our Counselors
Lower School: JG Bailey and Aleya Willis
Middle School: Janani Buford and Jo Malveaux
Upper School: Samantha Bosco and Mallika Rajan
Athletics: ChaChi Sullivan