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LEILA FADEL, HOST:
Were not even four weeks into the new year, and according to data from the Gun Violence Archive, there have already been 40 mass shootings in the U.S.
A MARTÍNEZ, HOST:
Hearing about such attacks can leave kids with questions and concerns.
FADEL: So if youre wondering how to talk to them about these tragedies, some old friends may be able to help.
(SOUNDBITE OF VIDEO, quot;WHAT IS VIOLENCE?quot;)
RYAN DILLON: (As Elmo) Elmo just doesnt understand why anybody would want to hurt anybody else, Daddy.
TYLER BUNCH: (As Louie) Yeah. Its hard to understand.
MARTÍNEZ: That scene isnt from a regular episode of Sesame Street. Its part of a program called Sesame Street in Communities, which provides resources for parents and caregivers to help with kids development.
FADEL: Jeanette Betancourt is with Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit that oversees the program. She says these tools are designed not just for kids but their circle of care.
JEANETTE BETANCOURT: So its not only parents and caregivers, but its early childhood educators, the pediatric community, child welfare or social workers, health care workers, all the influencers on young childrens well-being.
MARTÍNEZ: Betancourt urges parents to keep these tools handy.
BETANCOURT: It doesnt always have to be a planned delivery. In fact, the more you make it as an everyday explanation, a moment where the little one is asking a question or showing the sign of distress, its especially the time to take advantage of these resources.
FADEL: A tragedy that these tools are so needed. You can find out more at sesamestreetincommunities.org.
(SOUNDBITE OF KUPLAS quot;SLEEPY LITTLE ONEquot;) Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.