With the recent news from the Philipines, many parents are struggling with how to explain tragic events to children. The Mister Rogers Parenting Book offers some helpful advice for parents during times of scary news:
* Do your best to keep the television off, or at least limit how much your child sees of any news event.
* Try to keep yourself calm. Your presence can help your child feel more secure.
- * Give your child extra comfort and physical affection, like hugs or snuggling up together with a favorite book. Physical comfort goes a long way towards providing inner security. That closeness can nourish you too.
To read more about ways to talk to your child, The Fred Rogers Company has additional helpful resources for parents and caregivers.