PGCPS Advise Parents, Teachers on Talking to Children About Trauma

With news outlets focusing on the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, CT Friday, many parents and teachers are now grappling with how to talk with children about the tragedy taking over the headlines and television channels.

Officials from Prince George's County Public Schools shared tips for talking to students about the school shooting and even shared signs that your student is having trouble coping with the event.

For more on the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, its victims and to learn how you can help, click onto Newtown Patch.

Although there is no immediate danger to county schools, Prince George's County Police have increased patrols near elementary schools across the county. Officials also sent school safety reminders to their teachers Monday and in light of the heroic efforts of Sandy Hook teachers, reminded them about procedures if a similar situation were to occur here. 

Dozens of teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary School hid and saved students from the gunman who charged into the school Friday,

Even in the gym, the loudest room in any school on a given day, something sounded very wrong, according to students.

"The gym teacher told us to go in a corner, so we all huddled and I kept hearing these booming noises," the girl, who was not identified by name, told NBC News. "We all started—well, we didn't scream; we started crying, so all the gym teachers told us to go into the office where no one could find us."

Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story was abbreviated.