Talking to kids about the Annunciation Catholic School shooting in Minneapolis
August 27, 2025
Guest: Josh Novick, LPC, Trauma Specialist & Founder, Trust and Grow Consulting
Host: David Riedman, PhD, Creator of the K-12 School Shooting Database
In the wake of today’s tragic school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, trauma counselor Josh Novick joins Dr. David Riedman to discuss how parents and caregivers can talk with children about violence and fear in their schools.
As a licensed professional counselor, trauma specialist, and volunteer with Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence, Josh emphasizes that children need truth, reassurance, and emotional safety—not silence. He offers practical ways to approach these conversations based on a child’s age, developmental stage, and exposure to the event.
Parents are encouraged to:
- Listen first. Give kids space to share what they’ve heard or felt before offering information.
- Be honest but age-appropriate. Avoid graphic details while acknowledging what happened.
- Reassure safety and stability. Remind children that trusted adults—teachers, parents, and community members—are working to keep them safe.
- Model calm and empathy. Children take cues from adult behavior during times of crisis.
Josh also highlights that repeated exposure to school violence—whether through direct experience or media coverage—can erode a child’s sense of safety. Early, compassionate conversations can help counteract this and foster resilience and connection.
📘 Resources for Parents and Educators
- Parents’ Guidelines for Helping Youth After a Recent Shooting (NMVVRC)
- Talking to Children About Violence – NASP
- Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic Event – Child Mind Institute
- Restoring a Sense of Safety After Mass Violence – SAMHSA
- Sesame Workshop: Talking About Violence
For more trusted insights and ongoing research, visit the K-12 School Shooting Database or follow the Back to School Shootings podcast by Dr. David Riedman.
