Crisis experts: talking to children about CT shooting is important

MILWAUKEE -- In the wake of the mass shooting tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut in which 20 students were killed, along with six adults, crisis management experts say it's important for parents to talk with children about what happened and make emergency plans.

The enormity of the Newtown, Connecticut shooting may seem overwhelming, but clinical psychologist and Senior Director of Crisis Management for FEI Dr. Vivian Marinelli says parents must understand what happened, come up with a safety plan and talk to their children.

"There is a need for something to be done. They have probably, more than likely heard about this, whether it's on television or from their friends. Just ask them if they have any concerns, or if they feel safe in school, and if they don't ask them why," Dr. Marinelli said.

Dr. Marinelli says it's also important to talk to other caregivers in order to forge a consistent message for children.

Dr. Marinelli says the conversation must be age-appropriate. The older the child, the greater the detail, but Dr. Marinelli says having the touch conversations is important -- even with the young ones.

"Talking to someone who is in kindergarten, first grade, second grade is much different than talking to someone in middle school, high school or even college. On the one hand, you don't want to frighten them, but on the other hand, you do want to talk to them about what they would do if something happened," Dr. Marinelli said.

There is a 45-minute online course through FEMA available to help families prepare for an active shooter situation. CLICK HERE for additional information.