I wrote this while processing a school shooting earlier this year. I hoped it’d be just that. Digital therapy for the author’s sorrow. Of no practical future relevance.

But sometimes, far too often it seems, hope weeps. And today it did. Again.

I think most of us realize this is a multi-dimensional problem. But while we adults work through, albeit very slowly, the regulatory, psychological, social, and familial issues and needed solutions, what do we tell our children when this kind of tragedy occurs?

A few suggestions:

• Use words and sentences they can understand.
• Be brief but thorough.
• Children want to be loved and safe. Above everything, communicate this.
• After you’ve talked to them, hug them until they let go.

The following is an example written for young children. If you’re a mom or dad or caregiver, I trust this can help you talk to your little ones if they’re aware of a school tragedy.

---

“You might have heard someone did a really bad thing at a school today. Someone took a gun and hurt some people with it.

Some children and adults at the school died.

It makes me very sad. I don’t know why someone would do something like this, but I want you to know that you’re safe in our family and your school is working extra hard to keep you safe, too.

It’s ok not to understand everything and it’s normal to be a little confused and afraid. I’m a grown-up and I feel the same way.

But I’m talking to some other grown-ups and people who make important decisions about things so that you and your teachers and your friends stay safe.

I love you very much, and will always protect you. And if you think more about all of this and have questions or want to talk more about it, I’ll listen and help you in any way that I can.

We’re together. And we always will be.”

---

(And if you and your family pray)

“Let’s pray for the moms and dads of the children at the school and for the mom and dad of the person who did this at the school. I’m sure they feel really bad and confused and sad, too. Let’s pray that they can be around people who love them and who will help them feel better.

And let’s pray that grown-ups who make important decisions will have the courage to make good decisions to help something like this not happen again.

It’s ok to still feel confused when we pray. In fact, that’s a good time to pray. Because God wants to help us. And I believe he will.”