Hello Reader,

The holidays are here, but scary things still happen. Thankfully, you can give your child the gift of reassurance. It isn’t denial—it’s helping them learn to cope.

✅ Dash of Information
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​Even during the happiest season, kids can feel the weight of scary headlines—mass shootings, high-profile violence, and stories of exploitation. I know I do!

Even if they don’t consume news directly, they often overhear adults, catch clips on screens, or hear friends repeat bits and pieces. When children feel unsafe, their brains can default to anxiety, falling into the “What if” trap of intrusive thoughts: “What if this happens to me or my family?”

✅ Dash of Motivation
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​If we stay silent, kids tend to fill in the gaps with worst-case assumptions. If we talk with honesty and calm, we teach a lifelong skill: “When something scary happens, I can talk with a trusted family member or friend.” The benefit isn’t having perfect answers—it’s helping them through the process to reclaim a sense of safety.

✅ Dash & Do: 3 Ways to Reassure with Honesty

1. Start with what they know. Ask: “What did you hear or see?” Then reflect back: “That does sound scary.” Correct misinformation gently and keep details age-appropriate.
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2. Give truthful safety framing. Say, “Bad things do happen, but they’re not as common as they seem.” I know an ER doc who often says, “The worst case scenario is usually the least likely scenario.” Reassure your child that your family has safety plans and trusted friends and neighbors. Share what Mr. Rogers’ mother told him during scary news: “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.” It’s reassuring to focus on the good people who help during a difficult time.
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3. Control the content and restore calm. Limit news exposure, and watch together only when needed. Turn on device safeguards if you haven’t already (restricted mode, kid profiles, filtered search). Then do a regulating activity: a walk, a game, deep breaths, —something that tells their body, “I’m safe now.”

Wishing you, all over the world, a very happy and safe Holiday Season!

Warmly,
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Kristen

P.S. My print proof of Good Pictures Bad Pictures Guide for Girls has arrived! This experience is a bit like a birth–you know it’s coming, you’ve seen the ultrasounds, but when she’s finally in your arms–it’s heavenly! After two years of working on this pioneering project, I’m so grateful for all of the support I’ve received. It should be available by the end of February 2026!

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