The tragic shooting in an elementary school in Connecticut is resonating with many here at home.
The magnitude of the terrible event shook parents across the city Friday morning, as they learned that over two dozen people, including 20 children, were killed while attending school.
"I have a son that just came out of kindergarten last year and I think of how excited he was everyday in school and how safe he felt and I can only imagine the fear that these children had at that moment," said Tammy Berge.
Berge is a mother to two children, aged six and nine, who attend Sister Annata Brockman school in west Edmonton. She is certain her children will have questions about the tragedy.
"I'm not sure how I would deal with it, to be completely honest. It's something that nine and six year olds should never have to be talked to about."
Registered psychologist Barbara Van Ingen says parents need to be prepared to have an honest talk with their children. She suggests parents explain what happened, but don't be too specific with details.
"It is important for the discussion to be truthful so that children have the information but, really what's most important is that the parents will be telling children that they're safe," Van Ingen explained, "(Tell them) that they have adults and teachers and other people that will help to keep them safe."
Van Ingen recommends parents bring up the conversation, rather than waiting for their children to ask about it. She also recommends parents limit their children's time on social media, as the images and videos may be upsetting to them.
Spokesperson with Edmonton Catholic Schools Lori Nagy says it's extremely difficult to comprehend this situation. She says while the school board has very good lock down procedures and crisis response plans, it's always looking at ways it can improve.
"We're constantly learning about improved security measures, how we can try to ensure the safety of students. So this, we'll definitely be taking a look at, debriefing and then of course talking with principals about anything that comes out of it that we might be able to use," explained Nagy.
Berge says she feels that her children are safe at school. She is still trying to come to terms with the innocence lost.
"Right now kids should just be worried about getting ready for Christmas," Berge said, "They shouldn't have to be thinking about something like this, it's such a tragedy."
With files from Laurel Clark.
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