Talking to Children about Terrorism and Traumatic Events When traumatic events such as the September 11 terrorist attacks occur, even young children are likely to know that something is wrong. An image on television or in a newspaper, an overheard conversation, or accounts from friends at school can be enough to confuse or frighten children about their own safety and the safety of those they love. Several organizations offer online advice on broaching these difficult subjects with children. The United States Department of Education has developed a special "Helping Children Understand the Terrorist Attacks" website, available in both English and Spanish. The site features suggestions for adults and educators, as well as letters from First Lady Laura Bush to elementary students and middle and high school students. The American Library Association has compiled a variety of resources that can help parents, teachers, and caregivers discuss tragic events with children. Included on the site are a list of books for children on separation and loss; resources for parents, teachers, and other caregivers; and links to sites offering advice for both children and adults. The Public Broadcasting Service's PBS KIDS site provides advice and information on discussing September 11 and other upsetting events with children. The site's resources are linked to popular PBS children's shows and characters, and include: Mister Roger's Neighborhood: Extended Thoughts Regarding Children and Scary News Arthur: Helping our Children in Difficult Times Sesame Workshop: Tragic Times, Healing Words ZOOM Responds Talking with Kids about Tough Issues is part of a national campaign cosponsored by Children Now and the Kaiser Family Foundation. The site offers "Talking with Kids about the News" pages, including updated information on addressing the topic of terrorism. The American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee offers advice for Arab-American parents, whose children might also face harassment or a sense of stigma in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Purdue University's Extension program offers a "Terrorism and Children" site with information on parenting in the wake of terrorism, talking with children about terrorism, and age-appropriate responses to children's questions and concerns. Finally, both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry provide information on communicating with and assisting children after a disaster. Guide Home | Talking to Children about Terrorism and Traumatic Events Exploring American History | Lesson Plans and Activities Note: The views expressed here have not been approved by the House of Delegates or the Board of Governors of the American Bar Association, and accordingly, should not be construed as representing the policy of the American Bar Association, nor do they represent the official position or policies of the ABA Standing Committee on Public Education.