Hi, I'm Dr. Josh Fader, the editor-in-chief of the Carlat Child Psychiatry

Report and co-author of the Child Medication Fact Book for Psychiatric Practice Second

Edition, 2023, and our other book prescribing psychotropics.

And I'm Geneva Vleska, a graduate with a degree in neuroscience and cognitive science and a podcast coordinator at the Krella report.

What should parents and caregivers know about school shootings and how to talk to their children?

First, it's important to keep things in perspective. School shootings are tragic and deeply unsettling, but they remain rare.

Most schools are safe and education is still the best place for children to learn, grow,

and connect with others. That said, children are hearing about these events from friends,

the media, even drills, so they often have fears they may not express outright.

What is the best way to help children feel safe without scaring them more?

Listen, listen, listen. And use open-ended communication. Tell me what you've heard. Tell me what worries you about school.

Validate their feelings without rushing to reassure them too quickly. Just be available, calm, and

honest. That can go a long way. When you offer reassurance, focus on the safety measures already

in place and the caring adults who are there to

help.

What's your perspective on school safety drills?

Well, drills are meant to prepare and protect, but if they're done the wrong way, they can

increase the fear.

We want to make them age appropriate and not traumatic.

For younger kids, this means using gentle language, practicing calmly, and avoiding graphic scenarios.

Older students can handle more direct information, but even then, drills should include time to talk about feelings and ask questions.

We don't force people to talk, but we give them

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