This is not an article about politics, capital punishment or whether the Fort Hood shooter deserves to be executed in public for his crimes.

Instead, it’s focused on the unprecedented parental challenge of handling the near-certain prospect that children will hear of or see footage of the Dec. 3 U.S. execution by firing squad of Nidal Malik Hasan if the Trump administration follows through with plans to livestream the event.

The danger stretches beyond the broadcast itself, because history shows graphic video from the event could be clipped, copied and pushed into children’s social feeds even if the original stream is restricted.

Experts suggest that grownups who care about children start by setting aside matters of politics and public policy — like the Nov. 3 U.S. midterm elections and the debate over capital punishment. Focus instead on how witnessing someone’s death by firing squad might land with young viewers — and how best to reassure and protect them.

Here are some guidelines that might help.

Mis- and disinformation reach children, too. It’s important for parents to have credibility with them, especially because their real, unspoken question might be: Are we safe? Have in hand some basic facts about the case and state them gently. “It will be easier to have a position, share your family’s values, and discuss things with a potentially overwhelmed child once you’ve taken the time to gather accurate, up-to-date info and assess your child’s needs,” according to Common Sense Media, which advises parents on entertainment and technology.

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