1. Create an open and supportive environment where children know they can ask questions. At the same time, it’s best not to force children to talk about things unless and until they’re ready.
2. Give children honest answers and information. Children will usually know, or eventually find out, if you’re “making things up.” It may affect their ability to trust you or your reassurances in the future. 
3. Use words and concepts children can understand. Gear your explanations to the child’s age, language, and developmental level. 
4. Be prepared to repeat information and explanations several times. Some information may be hard to accept or understand. Asking the same question over and over may also be a way for a child to ask for reassurance. 
5. Acknowledge and validate the child’s thoughts, feelings, and reactions. Let them know that you think their questions and concerns are important and appropriate.
6. Remember that children tend to personalize situations. For example, they may worry about their own safety or the safety of teachers, friends and family members.  
7. Be reassuring, but don’t make unrealistic promises. It’s fine to let children know that they’re safe in their house or in their school. But you can’t promise that no else will die or get hurt. 
8. Children learn from watching their parents and teachers. They are very interested in how you respond. They also learn from listening to your conversations with other adults. 
9. Children who have experienced losses in the past are particularly vulnerable to news about the loss of a public figure. These children may need extra support and attention. 
10. Children who are preoccupied with questions or concerns about death or safety should be evaluated by a trained and qualified mental health professional. Other signs that a child may need additional help include: ongoing sleep disturbances, intrusive thoughts or worries, recurring fears about death, leaving parents or going to school. If these behaviors persist, ask your child’s pediatrician, family physician or school counselor to help arrange an appropriate referral. 
11. Although parents and teachers may follow the news with close scrutiny, most kids just want to be kids. They may not want to think about death, even when it happens to someone they know or recognize. They’d rather play ball, climb trees or ride bikes. 
12. The death of a well-known public figure can be hard to comprehend or accept. Understandably, some young children may feel sad or confused. As parents, teachers and caring adults, we can best help by listening and responding in an honest, consistent and supportive manner. Fortunately, most children, even those exposed to trauma like loss are quite resilient. However, by creating an open environment where they feel free to ask questions, we can help them cope with stressful events and experiences, and reduce the risk of lasting emotional difficulties.

For additional information see Facts for Families:
#47 The Anxious Child

#4 The Depressed Child

#8 Children and Grief

#67 Children and the News

#54 Children and Watching TV