K E E P E X P L A N A T I O N S
D E V E L O P M E N T A L L Y
A P P R O P R I A T E
Answer questions and
assist in separating reality
from fantasy.
Upper Elementary and
Early Middle School
Provide simple information
and concrete examples
balanced by assurance of
safety.
Early Elementary
Emphasize students' role in
safety & how to access
support.
Upper Middle & High
School
For additional guidance, visit
www.nasponline.org/safety-and-crisis.
© 2021 National Association of School Psychologists,
www.nasponline.org
Families and school personnel play a critical role in helping to reestablish a sense
of normalcy and security for children after an act of violence occurs. Follow these
key reminders and visit www.nasponline.org/children-and-violence to learn more.
TALKING TO CHILDREN ABOUT VIOLENCE:
TIPS FOR FAMILIES AND EDUCATORS
S C H O O L S A F E T Y A N D C R I S I S
Let children’s questions guide the information provided.
Be patient and look for clues that a child wants to talk.
Young children may need concrete activities (e.g.,
imaginative play) while some older children may prefer
writing or playing music.
M A K E T I M E T O T A L K
Emphasize that schools are very safe.
Let children speak about their feelings and validate
reactions to the event.
Support the appropriate expression of their feelings and
help to put them in perspective.
R E A F F I R M S A F E T Y
Help children identify an adult at school and in the
community that they can go to if they feel threatened
or at risk.
Review procedures and safeguards in school and home
settings.
R E V I E W S A F E T Y P R O C E D U R E S
Some children will not express themselves verbally but
changes in behavior, appetite, or sleep patterns can
indicate anxiety or stress.
Seek help from a mental health professional for those
with more intense reactions that last more than 2
weeks.
M O N I T O R E M O T I O N A L S T A T E
Keep a regular schedule and healthy nutrition, sleep
and exercise to promote physical and mental health.
Encourage maintenance of school work and
extracurricular activities but do not push children who
seem overwhelmed.
Limit exposure to images or graphic reference to the
event (e.g., TV and social media)..
M A I N T A I N A N O R M A L R O U T I N E