Caring for children can be confusing and scary all by itself. Violence happening in schools and the community doesn’t make it any easier. We are all shaken by the November 30th tragedy at Oxford High School. With this event happening so close to home, we know that many parents, teachers, and caregivers might be struggling with how to discuss it with kids. If you don’t know what to say to your kids about gun violence, you’re not alone. We’ve compiled some resources to get you started.

This can be a touchy topic and not every family will approach it in the same manner. Regardless of how you choose to handle it, we hope something here will help.

Online Resources

Talking to Kids About Fear and Violence from Mental Health America

Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers from the National Association of School Psychologists

School Shooting Resources from The National Child Traumatic Stress Network

How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings from Common Sense Media

Age-Appropriate Strategies to Educate Kids About School Shootings from Scholastic

If you or someone you know has knowledge of any criminal activities or potential harm directed at students, school employees, or schools in the state of Michigan, we encourage you to report it at Michigan.gov/ok2say.