How about you say nothing

I've read several blog posts all with the same theme in response to the bombing during the Boston Marathon this week... 

"What do we say to our children?"

It's interesting and ironic to me that this question is the same question that is asked every time something horrible becomes a national media circus.  

And, by using the term media circus I don't mean to imply that this isn't a tragedy that needs media attention - I am just calling it like I see it. Because all the while the focus has been on Boston, rescuers have been searching for possible survivors of a horrific Texas tragedy, Chicagoans are building Arks, and murderers, child molesters, and rapists are on the run all over the world.  Boston just happens to be getting all the focus (even though they keep repeating the same information and even went so far as to report that an uncle of the suspect was apologizing to his neighbors for the circus in their neighborhood)

I'm surprised that that a standard answer to this question hasn't been found and a whole classification of books written by "experts" hasn't been created.  But, in truth, I'm mostly saddened that another generation of parents with young children is faced with figuring out what to say. 

I have to wonder if maybe they shouldn't say anything.

I'm from the school of thought that requires a parent to shield their children from this kind of thing until they reach an age where they are mature enough to handle the information; even if it means the parent doesn't get to watch CNN continuously. I believe in turning off the tv, internet, and radio and spending quality time with your children instead of letting the monsters in.  

Minimize the nightmares, maximize the memories.