How To Talk To Your Kids About the CT Shooting - ABC6 - Providence, RI and New Bedford, MA News, Weather

How To Talk To Your Kids About the CT Shooting

By: Melissa Toupin

mtoupin@abc6.com

The pain of the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut reaching beyond the state border tonight.

"Absolutely horrible. It's devastating," said Melissa Diamante of Providence who has a 7 year old son.

Parents of young children now tasked with explaining to them the horrific events that left 20 elementary school children and 6 adults dead.

"We explain to children that something bad has happened, and it's very scary, and we validate their feelings," said Dr. Joseph Singer of Riverside Pediatrics in East Providence.

Dr. Singer says how much you should tell them depends on how old they are.

"Tell the truth in a way that a child could understand given their age," said Dr. Singer. "Many children were hurt. Some died. Everyone is very sad and afraid."

Warning sings that a youngster is having trouble dealing with the information include a drastic change in behavior. But for most, they will be okay knowing that everything is going to be all right.

"We try to reassure them about our situation and how we do our best to protect them and keep them safe," said Dr. Singer.

As difficult as the conversation may be, parents we spoke to say it's nothing compared to the grief of those who lost their loved ones.

"It's tragic. And this time of year...you feel bad for the families. I just pray for each and every one of them," said Sherry Rivera of Providence.