"In hardly any time at all, the footage of the horrifying moment when a bullet hit conservative activist Charlie Kirk in the neck cascaded across the internet. Whether seeing it inadvertently or seeking it out, onlookers far from the crowd at a Utah college could be exposed to disturbingly close and potentially bloody glimpses of his shooting and the resulting chaos. It's the product of a digital-first world where the presence of smartphones and social media makes current events readily accessible and often, practically unavoidable."
"And, of course, among those seeing it were kids, teens and other young people those who live with their phones practically attached and are often far more chronically online than their parents. It raises a question that modern-day parents are sadly having to ask more frequently: How do you talk to your kids about what's going on, what they're seeing and hearing? Don't ignore it It's a basic parental impulse to want to protect kids, to shield them from harsh realities or complicated situations, to think they're too young to know about the ways in which the world can be unsafe or terrible. Yet when it comes to the actual world around us, that's not realistic, experts say."
Smartphones and social media rapidly circulate graphic footage of violent events, exposing children and teens who are frequently online. Children often encounter such content directly or indirectly by overhearing peers, teachers, or adults. Attempts to fully shield children through screen limits or parental controls are unlikely to prevent exposure. Parents should acknowledge the reality of information access, engage in open and honest age-appropriate conversations, set boundaries and viewing limits, teach media literacy, and provide reassurance about safety. Adults should monitor children's reactions, model calm responses, and seek professional help if persistent fear, trauma, or distress emerges.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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