What started as a simple argument over a toy in Farley Square took a frightening turn when a 9-year-old girl reportedly pulled out a knife and threatened the other children she was playing with.
The caller told police that four kids had been playing together when tempers flared. After the threat, the girl left the area, but the caller still wanted to speak with an officer. Police responded, talked to everyone involved, and began sorting out what happened.
🚨 When a Child Threatens Violence: What Parents and Guardians Should Do
An incident like this is alarming—but it’s also an opportunity to step in before things escalate further. Here’s what experts recommend:
1️⃣ Address It Immediately
Don’t brush off threats as “kids being kids.” Even if no one is hurt, the behavior needs to be taken seriously.
2️⃣ Stay Calm but Firm
Your reaction sets the tone. Stay composed, but make it clear the behavior is unacceptable and dangerous.
3️⃣ Find the “Why”
Ask questions to understand what caused the anger. Was it frustration? Imitating something they saw? Feeling unsafe?
4️⃣ Teach Conflict Resolution Skills
Role-play arguments and show healthier ways to handle disagreements—like walking away, sharing, or asking an adult for help.
5️⃣ Involve Professionals if Needed
If a child is showing repeated aggression, contact a school counselor, pediatrician, or mental health professional for guidance.
💬 The Takeaway
Disputes over toys are normal—knives are not. Teaching kids how to handle frustration without turning to threats or violence is a lesson that could prevent serious harm later on.
Because it’s far easier to teach a child to solve problems at 9 years old than to arrest them at 19.