Q. With all the violence we have experienced recently in our com- munity and on the news, my 3-year-old son has started asking why guns hurt people. How should I handle this?

A. There's a lot you can do. Monitor -- as much as possible -- what your son is watching on television and videos.

Answer his questions as honestly as you can. If he's fearful, reassure him. Tell him that it's your job to keep him safe, and you do that in many ways -- you can talk about how you keep him safe in the car, at home, while you're shopping, and in other situations.

When he is calm and receptive, talk about how guns are for grownups (for instance, police officers who keep us safe and people who hunt for food) and are never -- never -- safe for kids to play with.

We infer from your question that you probably do not keep guns in your own home. (If you do, of course you keep them locked up, you keep the ammunition locked up separately, and you make sure the keys are where children cannot get them, right?)

When your child visits the homes of other children, reinforce with him that, if there are guns there, he should never play with them. Additionally, work with your son to develop a safety plan about what he is to do if he and his playmates find a gun -- stay calm, carefully leave the place where the gun is, and immediately tell an adult.

If you live in a community that has experienced an impact from violence, many churches and community organizations have started therapeutic support groups to help children work through their fears and anxieties. This may be an avenue to explore.

In any event, our strongest recommendation is ongoing communication with your child to address his questions and any fears he has.