Navigating conversations about tragic news events
9/23/2025 by Jennifer Rodemeyer, M.A., CCLS
When a tragedy occurs, it may be difficult even for adults to process what's reported on the news. As a parent or guardian, you may wonder how to help your child process these events. It may go against your instincts to bring these events up — you may wonder if this will bring more attention to the situation or cause additional fear or worry.
In the end, sitting down with your child and having a conversation is something that all parents or guardians should do. This will help your child learn from you what they may be hearing during school, from the news or social media, or talking with their friends. You know your child and how to support them the best.
Here are some tips to help your child process tragic news events:
- Start the conversation. Ask an open-ended question like, “Have you heard about what happened?” This helps you understand what they already know. If they haven't heard, gently share what happened so they hear it from you first.
- Share your feelings. Let your child see that you also feel sadness, confusion or worry. Modeling healthy expression shows them it's OK to talk about emotion
- Validate their emotions. Thank them for sharing, reassure them their feelings are normal, and let them know you'll always listen.
- Focus on helpers. Talk about the people who responded — teachers, leaders, police and first responders — and how they work hard to keep others safe.
- Talk about safety. Please remind your child that schools and community spaces have trusted adults who will guide and protect them in an emergency.
- Offer guidance. Encourage them to listen to leaders and stay close to trusted adults if they're ever in a difficult situation.
- Limit media exposure. Too much news or social media coverage can feel overwhelming. Let them know you'll share updates they genuinely need to know.
- Keep checking in. Children may revisit the topic at unexpected times. Continue to ask questions, listen and remind them of your love and support.
- Remind your child of the importance of letting you or someone in charge know if they hear that someone wants to hurt themselves or other people. This is a critical way to get others the support they may need.
Most importantly, remind your child they are loved, safe and never alone in their feelings.
As parents and guardians, we can continue to help our children during times of uncertainty by having open, honest conversations. Ultimately, this will strengthen your relationship with your child by building trust through processing the information, expressing feelings and learning together.
Jennifer Rodemeyer, M.A., CCLS, is manager of the Child Life Program at Mayo Clinic Children's in Rochester, Minnesota.