COLUMBIA - In wake of Friday's school shooting in Newton, Conn., Columbia Public Schools are offering suggestions on how to talk with your kids about the tragic events.

In an e-mail sent to parents obtained by KOMU 8, the district encouraged parents to be especially sensitive and be prepared to offer support to their kids. The e-mail also told parents they may notice behavior changes in their child such as nervous behavior, trouble concentrating and a fear of being alone.

Here are some of the suggestions from Columbia Public Schools:

• Children do not need to know everything about a violent situation to come to some understanding about it.
• Be sensitive to your child's questions.
• Permit your child to talk about his or her feelings.
• Show your understanding and caring when sharing news about this event with your child.
• Talk at your child's eye level. Touch or hold your child when appropriate as hugs and sitting close can say a lot.
  

Below is a look at the full e-mail sent out to Columbia Public School parents Friday afternoon:

CPS Talking to Kids