06/03/2026
The domestic violence shooting in Sandy, Oregon on May 31 has impacted the entire community. COEF is sharing information about responding to shootings as well as how to help kids and teens cope.
What the research says children need most:
The research on children exposed to domestic violence and traumatic loss is surprisingly consistent. Children benefit most from adults who tell the truth in age-appropriate language. Kids usually do better when they receive honest information rather than vague euphemisms.
Mental health experts generally recommend simple, factual explanations rather than avoiding the topic altogether. Reassure repeatedlyChildren often need to hear the same messages dozens or hundreds of times:
-Ask the children what would make them feel safe.
-Tell the children this was not their fault.
-The children did nothing to cause it.
-The children are allowed to talk about what happened and share their feelings.
-It’s okay to have mixed or complicated feelings about the person who caused the violence.
-The children could not have done anything to stop the violence.
-The responsibility for the violence lies with the person who perpetrated the violence.
Our hearts are with Sandy.
Posted on June 3, 2026 Resources for the families and survivors of the Sandy, Oregon mass shooting on May 31, 2026 By Penny Okamoto, COEF The family mass shooting in Sandy, Oregon, has left us devastated by the tragic loss of life and the profound impact this violence will have on the entire communi...