Below can be attributed to Act for Kids:
The tragedy that has unfolded at Bondi Beach in Sydney is deeply distressing, particularly for the children, families and individuals who witnessed this terrorist attack.
Act for Kids sends heartfelt condolences to the victims of this harrowing tragedy and to their families.
Our thoughts are with the witnesses, first responders and emergency services personnel who attended the scene, as well as the wider Jewish community and the broader Australian community.
In the aftermath of tragedies such as this, it is common for people who are exposed to images, videos and graphic coverage to experience feelings of distress, despair and vulnerability.
Children are especially sensitive to media coverage of tragedies and disasters, and of particular concern is the circulation of disturbing footage and images on social media.
Children may worry about their own safety, the safety of their family and friends, and may have many questions about what has occurred.
Here are some steps to support children:
- Monitor how much news and social media coverage of the incident children are exposed to.
- Don’t wait for children to come to you – keep the lines of communication open.
- Explain what has happened in an age-appropriate way and answer any questions they may have.
- Offer them the following advice: “If you do see anything that makes you upset or is really scary, turn your phone off and come and talk to me”.
- With high school–aged children, engage in deeper conversations by asking what they know and how they are feeling.
- Remind children of the many positive and caring things happening every day that don’t always make the news.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available:
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
Lifeline on 13 11 14
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