Talking about traumatic events with children

Talking to children about traumatic events is one of the hardest parts of parenting *especially* when the news is everywhere and details feel overwhelming.

In this bonus mini-episode of Prepared, Not Scared, Sarah is joined by child psychologist Deirdre Brandner to explore how to support children after distressing events, without frightening them or giving more information than they need.

This episode was recorded in response to recent events in Australia at Bondi Beach and is designed to help parents navigate tough conversations with calm, clarity and care.

In this episode, we unpack:

▶︎ Why children don’t need to witness an event to be affected
▶︎ How to start the conversation using age-appropriate language
▶︎ What to say (and what not to say) when children have big feelings
▶︎ Why routines, reassurance and predictability are so important
▶︎ How to keep communication open without over-exposing children to distressing information

You don’t need the perfect words.
You just need to be calm, honest and available.

A gentle, practical guide for parents wanting to support their children through challenging times — while preserving emotional safety and a sense of normalcy.

Prepared, not scared.

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