TAMPA, Fla. — Many parents out there are facing questions from their children about the violent demonstrations happening in the nation's capital. They are curious, scared or confused by the images they're seeing on television and social media.
My 6yr old just asked me to turn off my computer and threw his face into my chest saying how scared he was at what he's seeing in DC. As a journalist I'll be watching in other ways but as a mother right now I AM FURIOUS AT OUR ELECTED LEADERS! THIS IS YOUR AMERICA NOT MINE!
— Katie LaGrone (@KatieLaGrone) January 6, 2021
However, a licensed psychologist and a licensed family therapist say there are a few things you can do to help your family feel more secure in what may feel like a chaotic time.
Dr. Valerie R. McClain, Ph.D., a psychologist in Tampa, said it's important that kids know they are safe, secure and loved, as there is a lot of change and anger happening around the country between COVID-19 and the siege on the Capitol Building.
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"People feel fragile," McClain said. "They feel very fragile, emotionally, spiritually, and physically."
McClain said no matter your political beliefs, it's important to not fill your kids with the anger or fear you may feel. She also said we can show our kids how to handle differences in a non-violent way.
"It's when we say, 'hey, we have choices that fall short of violence, we have choices where we can speak and express themselves, but we don't have to harm people,'" McClain said.
McClain also said taking time together as a family and doing what feels normal to you right now can be very calming for everyone.
In addition, Crystal Clark, a licensed family therapist, also offered tips for adults to handle what's going on.
They include focusing on the things you can control, taking responsibility for those things, and also shutting off social media and or taking a step back if that becomes too much.
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