United Way offers resources on how to talk to children about tragedy; supports Western Connecticut fund for affected families

Our hearts and thoughts continue to be with the community of Newtown, Connecticut and all affected by the unfathomable tragedy in which so many innocent lives were senselessly lost yesterday. As you begin to process these events at home, and if you're feeling overwhelmed or need guidance in talking to your children about the tragedy, these resources can help you have that difficult conversation and ensure that your child feels safe.

One Tough Job via Children's Trust
"Although you may think that your child is better off not knowing about incidents like 9/11, Hurricane Sandy, or the recent shootings across our nation, it was likely discussed on the school bus, the playground, or in a variety of other places and chances are, the information your child heard is at least a little bit inaccurate or exaggerated. Children rely on their parents to be safe and reliable sources of information. Your child needs to know what you think, and the best way to reassure him is to talk about it." Click here for more.

Boston.com: How to talk to kids about the Connecticut school shooting
"Children will no doubt hear about this and wonder whether it’s safe to go to school. After the July movie theater killings in Aurora, Colorado, I spoke with Boston-area mental health specialists on how parents should talk to their children about horrific news events." Click here for tips.

How you can help the families of Newtown:
United Way of Western Connecticut has set up a fund for all those families affected by the devastating events in Newtown/Sandy Hook. In partnership with Newtown Savings Bank, they have created the  'Sandy Hook School Support fund" that will be able to provide support services to the families and community that has been affected.

Check donations may be mailed to:

Sandy Hook School Support Fund
c/o Newtown Savings Bank
39 Main Street, Newtown CT  06470

To donate online: https://newtown.uwwesternct.org/

If you are in need of psychological or other services as a result of the events, please dial 2-1-1 for support.