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08.27.2025
Talking to Children and Teens After a School Shooting
Sheila Rauch, PhD, ABPP
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August 27, 2025
Talking to Children and Teens After a School Shooting
Learn how to talk to children and teens about school shootings, trauma, and violence. ADAA shares expert strategies for helping kids feel safe, supported, and resilient after tragedy.
Authored by: Sheila Rauch, PhD, ABPP
With today’s constant news cycle and social media, children, preteens, and teens are often exposed to difficult events such as school shootings and community violence. They may hear about these events from friends, teachers, or directly through online video coverage. As a parent or caregiver, your key role after any type of trauma or violent event is to reassure your child that they are safe, loved, and supported.
Encourage Open Conversations
Invite your child to talk with you about what they’ve seen or heard. Ask open-ended questions like:
• “What have you heard about this event?”
• “How does it make you feel?”
• “What do you think it means for your school or community?”
Conversations should be tailored to your child’s age and developmental level, using their own words as much as possible.
Help Children Cope with Fear, Anger, and Loss
Coping with loss and trauma is never easy—especially when it stems from senseless violence. Events like school shootings can shatter a child’s sense of security and control, leaving them feeling scared, angry, or sad. Let them know these feelings are normal. Help them express emotions in safe ways—through talking, drawing, journaling, or other healthy outlets.
Limit Media Exposure
While it may feel natural to seek more information, continuous exposure to disturbing videos or news coverage can intensify trauma symptoms. Encourage your child to step away from graphic media content and talk with you instead if they encounter something upsetting online.
Normalize Their Reactions
Reassure your child that many people feel upset, anxious, or fearful after such events. Let them know that their feelings will ease with time. If emotions don’t improve or interfere with daily life, remind them that mental health professionals are available and effective treatments can help.
Promote Safety and Healing
The best way to reduce the impact of trauma is to restore a sense of safety and stability. Discuss what steps schools and communities can take to protect children. Consider whether your family wants to participate in community safety initiatives or advocacy efforts aimed at preventing future violence.
When to Seek Professional Support
If your child continues to struggle after a traumatic event, resources are available. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) offers information on evidence-based treatments for trauma, anxiety, and depression. Seeking professional help can provide children and families with effective coping strategies and long-term healing.
Sheila Rauch, PhD, ABPP
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