It seems we’re all still deeply saddened by the school shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, and as we try to make sense of what happened, it’s understandable that you might be glued to your TV or internet news reports to hear the latest developments. But, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says to be extra careful about watching or viewing scary media while your kids are around.
In a statement released Friday, AAP President Thomas McInerny, MD, FAAP, said, “As in any frightening situation, young children should not be exposed to the extensive media coverage of the event — in other words, turn off the TV, computer, and other media devices.”
McInerny also encouraged parents to use resources available to them to help them talk to their kids about the disaster, including their child’s pediatrician. Not sure where to turn or what to say? See the AAP’s resources to help families cope.
Do you have kids old enough to explain the shootings to? How did you talk with them about the tragedy?
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