Finally, encourage kids to talk about their feelings and reactions to the Colorado school shootings. Downplay any media attention that local copy cat threats receive. Experts say parents should find activities and individual ways that a child can pursue interests and find positive, constructive, attention. They often feel alone and left out and are looking for attention and power. Still, adults should check out every threat quietly and without panic.
Many news agencies struggle with whether to report copy cat threats.
In the past, some media outlets have refused to report school bomb threats and other attention grabbing acts. Still, some journalists say the nature and timing of the threats following the Colorado shootings make them newsworthy. The swell of threats in local communities obligates media to report and warn local residents about the worrisome activities going on in kids schools and surrounding communities. Newspapers and television can attempt to downplay the rumors and pranks, but most journalists agree the high number of threats cannot be ignored.