Emotions continue to run high today as we wake up to learn the fate of the hostages in the Sydney CBD siege.
There’s no doubt that most of our empathy is flowing to the hostages and their families, particularly the families of the deceased. For parents who are struggling to know what to say to their children, the answer is that it depends on the age of your kids.
Very young children (under 6) can probably be shielded from what’s happened and it would be a good idea to keep them away from news coverage. Older children and adolescents would have probably heard what’s going on and will need their questions answered in an age-appropriate manner. Explaining tragedy and giving them the facts as we know them and reassuring them that this was a man acting alone and that the police did a wonderful job yesterday. Questions about why someone would do this need to be answered carefully. In short, we don’t know why, but we do know that this is nothing to do with being Muslim. This was an extremist and a man known to the authorities.
We must make sure that we stop any growing racism in its tracks. In the coming days, it’s a good idea to keep checking in with our children to make sure that they are not quietly worrying. Don’t assume if they are not speaking up that they are ok. Some kids keep very much to themselves. Look for changes in behaviour, changes in appetite or sleeping patterns, and unexplained stomach aches and headaches. If you see these signs, reassure them that’s it’s normal to feel anxious and that you are there for them.
Read more about the Sydney Siege here
How are you explaining tragedy to your children? Share your advice or ask Jo Lamble a question below…
