As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, I have spent my career helping families navigate some of the most difficult conversations—and none are more emotionally charged than how to talk to children about school shootings.
In a recent interview with the Fort Worth Report, I was honored to lend my voice to a critical discussion on this topic. The article, titled “LISTEN: How do you talk to elementary school kids about school shootings?”, offers compassionate guidance for parents, caregivers, and educators facing these painful conversations.
During the interview, I emphasized the importance of meeting children where they are—emotionally, developmentally, and psychologically. Every child is different, and the way they process frightening news varies depending on their age, personality, and previous experiences.
Rather than overwhelming young minds with information, it’s vital to create a safe space where children can express their feelings, ask questions, and feel reassured. A key part of that, I explained, is helping them regain a sense of security and control. “We can’t always promise that bad things won’t happen,” I noted in the piece, “but we can promise that we’ll do everything we can to keep them safe.”
At Achieve Coaching Rx, my mission is to empower individuals and families to thrive—especially in times of uncertainty. Whether through coaching, consultation, or therapeutic support, I believe in guiding people toward resilience with empathy and evidence-based tools.
If you’re looking for thoughtful strategies on how to support children through difficult conversations—or if you’d like to explore how coaching or consultation might benefit your family or organization—I invite you to explore the resources available here on my site or reach out directly.
Together, we can build a future where children feel seen, heard, and safe.