Books to Help Children and Parents Cope with Newtown

The Alexandria Library has compiled a list of resources online and in local libraries to help adults discuss and children better cope with violence and

Alexandria Library staff have provided the following books and descriptions.

Books for Kids

When I’m Afraid by Jane Aaron

Designed as a conversation starter, this book focuses on how adults can offer reassurance when children are fearful. Includes a parents’ guide.

Sometimes Bad Things Happen by Ellen Jackson

Explores causes of sadness, including seeing a frightening story on the news, and introduces strategies for dealing with sadness.

This Place I Know: Poems of Comfort, selected by Georgia Heard

Life-affirming poetry and illustrations compiled in the wake of 9/11. Although inspired by a specific event, the material itself is general and can be used to bring comfort after any tragic event.

When Dinosaurs Die: A Guide to Understanding Death by by Laurie Krasny Brown and Marc Brown

Attempts to answer some of the difficult questions children have about death and offers specific suggestions for coping with fright and anger.

Love Waves by Rosemary Wells

Offers reassurance to children with the message that love always connects parents and children, even when they are apart. 

Books for Parents

Freeing Your Child from Anxiety by Tamar Chansky

Offers parents methods for teaching their child how to deal with stress and face the uncertainties of life.

Growing Up Brave by Donna Pincus

A psychologist offers simple tools to assist parents in dealing with their children’s anxieties.

Resources from the Web

Fred Rogers Talks about Tragic Events in the News Mr. Rogers offers concrete advice on how to talk with children about scary events in the news. Includes a short video.

New York Times: Tips for Talking to Children About the Shooting Compiles advice from experts on the best way to talk with and reassure children after a scary event has happened.

Mental Health America: Helping Children Cope with Tragedy Related Anxiety Offers advice on talking to children about tragic events. Suggestions are tailored to specific age groups.

National Association of School Psychologists Multiple resources include a PowerPoint presentation titled “Tips for Teachers and Parents Following School and Community Violence.”

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry A plethora useful guides for parents and educators, including “Tips for Talking to Children about the Connecticut School Shooting” and “Restoring a Sense of Safety in the Aftermath of a Mass Shooting: Tips for Parents and Professionals.”

For more helpful information about your community, follow Old Town Alexandria Patch on Twitter, "like" us on Facebook and sign up for our free daily email newsletter.