Here are some tips.

Give reassurance and physical comfort. Children absorb the tension, uncertainty, confusion and fear around them. Give them extra hugs, smiles, handholding. Reassure them, make them feel safe by saying “I will take care of you”. Young children have great faith in adult’s powers and respond to adult reassurances.

Provide structure. Children need consistency and security in their day - especially when the rest of their life is unpredictable.

Although life isn’t as normal in these times, dinner, bath, reading time can be tremendously reassuring in these times. They may find it difficult, but persevere being firm and supportive. Make decisions for the children when they cannot cope with choice.

In dealing with the American events lately:

Turn off the TV. Limit TV and radio when around children to keep them from viewing graphic images or listening to distressing reports.

Don’t expect children to understand violence as adults do. Try and keep them from repeats of horrific images.

Answer questions about the situation but recognise the child’s developmental level. Listen carefully to children and recognise feelings.

Use care in exposing children to TV, radio and conversations where you may express your own concern and worry.

Acknowledge that children from all races and cultures are likely to feeling some distress from events surrounding them.

Tell your children that many people, from all walks of life around the world are working hard to prevent more violence.

Full copy can be found on DoCS website: www.community.nsw.gov.au. If you do not have access the Internet, you can use it at the great treasure trove, the town library in Park Lane.