July 2022 | Page 2

Coping with Current Events with our Children

After disturbing incidents like shootings , terrorist attacks , riots and natural disasters , feelings of panic and fear increase . Extensive news coverage and posts on social media can heighten those feelings , especially in kids and teens . As adults grapple with how to move forward in the aftermath these events , it ’ s important to help kids and teens process them , too .
“ It ’ s normal for us as parents to want to shield our children from the anxiety that these types of events can cause ,” says pediatric psychologist Jenna Glover , PhD . “ But even from a young age , our kids are already aware that things are happening , so it ’ s helpful to talk with them directly about what ’ s going on .”
General guidelines to help your child cope
When something unsettling is in the news , kids seek security . In general , parents should consider the following :
Increase how and when you ’ re available to your child , both physically and emotionally . Being accessible can create a safe space for your child to express their emotions .
Decrease or set limits on access to media . Young children have trouble processing what they see on the news . And teens , like adults , may at times feel overwhelmed with coverage they see on TV and social media .
Go to the following link for more helpful resources and tips listed by age groups . www . childrenscolorado . org / conditions-and-advice / parenting / parenting-articles / coping-with-current-events /
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