Each child is different. Pacing and accommodating each child's unique needs is ideal. Of course, we cannot always control what they are exposed to, so helping them learn to self-soothe, distract, and put into perspective what they have witnessed is helpful. But unnecessary exposure to gratuitous violence in film or much too early exposure to TV news can be distressing for any child.
Not overreacting as a parent is also essential. Anxious parents transmit a tremendous amount of anxiety to their kids. It is obviously hard to keep our anxiety under control. But kids absorb it like a sponge. So we need to take care of ourselves and try to remain calm and help them understand that their world is safe, that we will be a stable influence, and will help them navigate what comes their way.
