14/12/2025
The devastating events at Bondi yesterday affect all of us — including our children.
We wanted to share a few gentle tips to support you when talking with your child about what has happened.
1️⃣ Talk with your child — honestly and age-appropriately.
It’s often better that children hear about frightening events from a trusted adult rather than from the playground or social media.
Keep explanations simple and factual, and avoid unnecessary detail. Reassure them that adults and emergency services are working to keep people safe.
Answer questions as they arise — facts are usually far less frightening than a child’s imagination.
2️⃣ Stick to routines and model calm.
Children look to adults to understand whether they are safe. Maintaining familiar routines and modelling calm (even if you’re feeling shaken) helps children feel secure.
It’s okay to acknowledge that something scary has happened while also reinforcing that home is a safe place.
3️⃣ Take care of yourself.
Supporting children is easier when you’re supported too. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to trusted people or support services such as Beyond Blue.
📄 This factsheet provides further guidance on helping children cope after tragic events and may be helpful to share with families.
Please be gentle with yourselves and with one another.
https://psychology.org.au/getmedia/a61fcf9d-dc4c-40f3-b94d-65995c85995b/helping-children-affected-tragic-events.pdf?fbclid=IwY2xjawOsA2hleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFzVVVsSWZ2RWJrNDVlTlR0c3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHif7U5FPvtz6JP_5aDtppppmhgiqMZfrsfWaPNQH2SxAgiQVDl5ZmVCwVVAG_aem_X2g1G6RSHVE54NXXjbHI1g
