Something Bad Happened
What’s inside...
"When children learn about something bad that has happened - even when they hear only bits and pieces of it - their brains get busy trying to make sense of it. ""Something Bad Happened"" guides children ages 6 to 12 and the adults who care about them through tough conversations about news of large-scale disasters, addressing questions such as: ""Where did it happen?"" ""Why did it happen?"" And, ""Will it happen again?"" Feelings such as sadness, fear and confusion are normalized, and coping tools provided. For children and parents to read together, this helpful resource provides comfort, support and action plans for children learning about troubling world events."
Character compass
Discussion points
How did the book make you feel when you learned about the bad thing that happened?
What are some ways the characters in the book handled their feelings?
Can you think of a time when you felt similar to how the characters felt? What did you do?
Why do you think it's important to talk about our feelings, especially after something bad happens?
How can we help each other when bad things happen?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, explain that the book will explore some difficult emotions and reassure your child that it’s okay to express how they feel.
While reading, pause after significant moments to ask your child how they think the character is feeling, and relate those emotions to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Encourage your child to draw or write about their feelings or about a part of the story that stood out to them, facilitating a deeper connection with the book’s themes.
Post-reading, reinforce the idea that everyone experiences tough times and that seeking support and expressing emotions is both healthy and necessary.
Share your own experiences dealing with difficult situations to show your child that they are not alone in their feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and Managing Emotions
Explanation: The book guides children through the process of understanding their emotions when they hear about bad news or events, using age-appropriate language and examples.
Real-World Application: Children can apply these strategies to manage their feelings during unsettling times, such as hearing about a natural disaster or a global crisis, fostering emotional resilience.
Example Lesson: Empathy Development
Explanation: Through the narrative, children learn to understand the feelings of others who are affected by bad events, promoting a sense of compassion and empathy.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children relate to and support their peers or family members who might be experiencing distress, strengthening their interpersonal relationships.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The story encourages children to ask questions and seek understanding about unsettling news, engaging their critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to think critically about the information they receive from various sources, helping them to develop discernment and a balanced perspective.
Example Lesson: Seeking Support
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of talking to trusted adults about fears and concerns, demonstrating healthy ways to seek support.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to communicate openly with parents, teachers, or counselors when they feel worried or confused, fostering effective coping mechanisms.
Example Lesson: Resilience Building
Explanation: Through the narrative, children see examples of coping mechanisms and reassurance, learning how to bounce back from emotional upset.
Real-World Application: This empowers children to face future challenges with strength, knowing they have the tools to recover from emotional setbacks.