Children often learn about tragedies such as the apparent murder of 32 people at Virginia Tech as their parents follow the news and others talk about it.

Experts said caregivers need to help youngsters understand by telling the truth in appropriate ways and showing how to respond calmly.

The national Parent Teacher Association said that children can overcome and be strengthened by disasters.

The group suggests that parents, teachers and others try to maintain their composure, ensure children that they are safe and stick to normal routines.

It also said to tell children about what happened in age-appropriate ways and to expect that they'll have many questions as they express their own feelings.

The National Association of School Psychologists has similar advice. It also says that children with past traumatic experiences or personal loss may be even more affected on hearing of disasters.

It also specifically said that younger children do not need as much information about the scale of a tragedy, but should be told simple facts.

The NASP also said that children should not watch long bouts of television coverage over and over again.

Both groups and others also suggested letting children help by sending donations or writing letters of support when appropriate.