When tragic events dominate the news cycle, adults often find themselves trying to process their own emotions while also supporting the children and teens in their lives. Media coverage can be overwhelming, confusing, and frightening, especially for young people who may not yet have the tools to fully understand what they are seeing or hearing.
The way adults respond to news coverage matters. Thoughtful, age-appropriate conversations and mindful media habits can help children feel safer, more supported, and less overwhelmed during difficult times.
Below are evidence-informed tips to help parents and caregivers navigate media coverage of recent tragedies with care and intention.
Limit Media Exposure
Children do not need the same level of exposure to news as adults. In general, the younger the child, the less media exposure is recommended. For very young children, it may be best to eliminate exposure to news coverage entirely.
Consider offering alternatives such as DVDs, streaming programs you already know and trust, or family activities away from television, radio, and the internet. Creating media-free moments can help reduce anxiety and give children’s nervous systems a break.
Watch and Discuss the News Together
If children are watching the news, try to watch with them. This allows you to help interpret what they are seeing and to correct misunderstandings in real time.
Ask open-ended questions such as:
- What did you notice?
- How did that make you feel?
- What questions do you have?
For older children and teens, ask what they may have seen online or on social media. This can give you insight into their fears, concerns, and point of view, and helps ensure they’re not carrying worries alone.
Seize Opportunities for Communication
Be available to talk. If they bring up a tragic event, start by asking what they already know. This helps you understand how they’re interpreting the situation and what they might need from you.
Reassure them that asking questions won’t upset you. When children feel safe to share scary thoughts, those fears are less likely to grow in silence. If they ask whether they are safe, respond honestly and calmly, emphasizing the steps you and other adults take to keep them protected.
Monitor Adult Conversations
Children often hear more than we realize. Be mindful of how you and other adults talk about tragedies or media coverage in front of them.
Conversations filled with speculation, graphic details, or heightened fear can be confusing or distressing when overheard by children, who may not have full context to understand what they’re hearing.
5. Highlight Positive Community Efforts
Media coverage often focuses on harm and loss, but children also benefit from hearing stories of compassion, helpers, and community response.
Share age-appropriate examples of people and organizations working to support those affected. Seeing adults take action and care for one another can help children feel hopeful and reassured that they are not alone.
Educate Yourself About Children’s Reactions
Children respond to traumatic events in different ways depending on their age, temperament, and level of exposure. While many children are resilient and cope well, others may experience lingering difficulties such as sleep problems, increased anxiety, irritability, or changes in behavior.
Learning about common trauma reactions can help you respond with patience and understanding, and recognize when additional support may be needed.
Additional Support and Resources
If you or your child need extra support following a traumatic event, help is available. The Disaster Distress Helpline, operated by SAMHSA, offers free, confidential crisis counseling 24/7. You can call or text 1-800-985-5990 (for Spanish, press “2”).