Helping children understand gun violence

HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – There have been more mass shootings in America than days this year, according to the Archive gun violence.

A total of 48 mass shootings, defined as one in which at least four people are shot dead, were documented by the Achieve from January 1-29.

The number of mass shootings is up 23 percent from last year, which means you’re probably hearing more about it, and so are your kids.

Ingrid Krecko is a clinical psychologist who told ABC 27 News that how parents approach gun violence with their children depends on two things – their age and their individual personality.

“You wouldn’t expect a three-year-old to understand or even want to talk about death and violence, but an eight-year-old or even a five- or six-year-old might be able to start handling these concepts,” Krecko said.

Krecko recommended that parents and caregivers have their children come to them with questions and have the conversation so they can decide if they want more information.

“But we can’t say to our kids, ‘Don’t worry, this will never happen to us,’ because that’s a promise we can’t necessarily keep given how pervasive gun violence is right now,” Krecko said.

Krecko also said open and honest conversations can ultimately help parents build empathy skills with their children and even encourage them to think of ways they can help.

“It helps the kids develop an awareness of how they can help and feel a little empowered like they can contribute,” Krecko said.