Ways to Talk to Children

Helping You Talk with Kids About Tough Topics

In today’s world, children are exposed to upsetting news—from school violence to global conflict. These events can feel overwhelming, especially when kids start asking questions.

At the Center for Child Counseling, we know how hard it can be to find the right words. That’s why we created Ways to Talk—a practical, trauma-informed guide to help you have honest, supportive conversations with children and teens.

Grounded in empathy, emotional safety, and positive communication, our tools give you the confidence to talk with kids in age-appropriate, meaningful ways—so they feel heard, understood, and safe.

Grief is the intense emotional reaction and distress in response to loss, usually associated with death.

Grief can encompass other forms of loss, separation, or the ending of a close relationship. Grief is a natural process and often a significant part of processing and moving beyond the pain to create new direction and a shift in daily life.

The thought of having to explain grief to a child can leave us feeling uncertain about the best way to approach the topic to avoid causing unnecessary distress for the child. CLICK HERE for our free workshop or on the image to view or download the tip sheet.

Other Resources:

The Dougy Center
Children's Bereavement Center
National Alliance for Children's Grief

The horror and heartbreak of a school shooting—or any act of senseless violence—can feel impossible to comprehend, even for adults. Explaining these events to children may seem overwhelming.

Whether you're talking about school shootings, war, or other traumatic events, our goal is to help you respond with calm, clarity, and compassion—providing children with the reassurance and emotional safety they need during uncertain times.

Click on the image to view or download the tip sheet. We hope this resource provides some guidance.

The Child Mind Institute has developed a variety of resources, in English and Spanish, with helpful strategies on dealing with anxiety - your kids' and your own. Their website is a reliable resource on a variety of topics.