Children can experience post traumatic stress from identification with the students who endured the violence. And you, too, experience empathy and shock for the parents whose children are direct victims. Staying physically close to you may be your daughter's way of coping. Your presence alone is immediately soothing, and can help her to recover her sense of security. Use the following guidelines and discussion to help you and your daughter find the path towards recovery.
Expression is the first step toward recovery.
Establish a safe environment for talking about feelings. Show your willingness to talk with your child about her feelings, but do not force her to talk. She will express herself when she is ready. Let her know you, too, are stunned and saddened. Answer her questions honestly, but do not try to explain anything you cannot understand yourself.