(CBS - Boston) Witnessing the Boston Marathon attacks, seeing images or aftermath, or even hearing about the deaths could cause some children to be worried and confused. Parents need to be prepared to talk to them about it. Here are some guidelines from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry's website about how to talk to your children and how to provide support for them: Create a time and place for children to ask their questions. Don't force children to talk about things until they're ready. Remember that children tend to personalize situations. For example, they may worry about friends or relatives who live in a city or state associated with incidents or events. Help children find ways to express themselves. Some children may not be able to talk about their thoughts, feelings, or fears. They may be more comfortable drawing pictures, playing with toys, or writing stories or poems directly or indirectly related to current events. Use words and concepts your child can understand. Make your explanation appropriate to your child's age and level of understanding. Don't overload a child with too much information. Give children honest answers and information. Children will usually know if you're not being honest.

Medical workers aid injured people at the 2013 Boston Marathon following an explosion in Boston, Monday, April 15. Two explosions shattered the euphoria of the Boston Marathon finish line on Monday, sending authorities out on the course to carry off the injured while the stragglers were rerouted away from the smoking site of the blasts. (AP Photo/The Boston Globe, David L Ryan)

David L. Ryan