Talking to children & young people about what happened at Bondi

Our hearts go out to the children, their parents, caregivers directly impacted by the horrific events at Bondi. We know events like these can trigger anyone who has experienced trauma, loss, discrimination, or violence.

Children and young people will have lots of questions, and the burden will sit heavier on some shoulders than others. They may be asking their parents, carers and teachers tough questions: such as why, what and what next?

If you’re talking to children or young people about what happened, here are some tips from Berry Street's therapeutic service, Take Two:

• Choose the right time to raise it with children unless you’re sure they won’t hear about it, such as when they have asked a question or made a comment.
• If it’s too intense to sit and look at each other, try raising it while you’re doing something side-by-side like walking, playing or drawing.
• Ask them if they’ve heard about what happened, and if they have, what they know.
• Don’t force them to talk about it and turn the news off, reducing their exposure.
• Let them know they are safe and validate their feelings if they’re scared or upset.
• Be present and give them your full attention for as long as they need it.
• You may need to come back to the conversation several times if they get distressed.
• Let them know you’re available to talk to them about it whenever they have questions and to talk about how they are feeling.
• Provide answers and use words that the child has capacity to understand – this includes when children have disabilities.
• Be honest but don’t include unnecessary details and say if you don’t know the answer to their questions.
• Highlight the kindness of others and focus on the brave things people did.
• Try and do something that strengthens your bond after the conversation, like cooking, playing, reading or watching something together.
• It’s normal for children to process their emotions in play and in drawings, don’t be alarmed if that happens. Perhaps join them in their play and help them make sense of their feelings.

Some resources from our local and international colleagues that may also be helpful:

Talking to children about violent events - Emerging Minds | Emerging Minds Australia

Understanding Trauma Responses in Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and When to Seek Help

The terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, which targeted the Jewish community, has brought up a range of emotions and concerns of safety, especially for Jewish families living in the… | National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)

If you need to speak to someone for more support, you can contact:

• Your GP
• Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue -1300 22 4636
• Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
• 13YARN - 13 92 76.

About Berry Street Take Two

Take Two is a trauma-informed mental health service with more than 20 years of experience working with infants, children, young people and families who have experienced complex trauma.