When news breaks that another school shooting happened, no one is hit harder than parents. Our kids may be worried, but as parents, we understand the scope of the tragedy on a deeper level. We recognize the unfathomable grief of those who dropped their kids off at school and never brought them home again. As we watch the news, we carry some of that grief with us.
The feelings parents may experience while processing a tragedy involving children are complex. On one hand, it has become so common that it’s not abnormal to feel numb. On the other, we can’t help but wonder as we take our own kids to school, could it happen to us too?
It’s understandable for parents to feel anxious, worried or even depressed when a story like this breaks. At the same time, it’s important to remember that our kids look to us to know how to react. They rely on us for emotional stability, so our reactions strongly influence how they interpret their external world.
Before thinking about what to say, think about how to be. Evaluate your own feelings and keep an eye on your own reactions. If you’re struggling to cope, consider talking to a friend, a parenting support group or a mental health professional for support.
When you do talk with your child, it’s OK to acknowledge that the event was very, very sad, but keep your composure. You are your child’s safe space, so remaining calm is the easiest way to put their minds at ease.
