CBS Atlanta 46Grief counselors sent to school of murdered Canton child

It was an emotionally difficult day for many people at Canton Elementary School Tuesday. Parents and students were struggling to deal with the death of Joreyls Rivera.

"We are scared. We are terrified. We are sad," said a woman who was picking up a child but wouldn't give her name.

Grief counselors were sent to the school to help students cope with the loss of a classmate and friend.

"It's hard for them to understand why this happened, but its hard for adults also," said Dr. Nadine Kaslow, a clinical psychologist who is on the board of directors of the America Psychological Association. I think it is really critical that you validate their feelings and not try to get rid of them. You say you understand, you're sad too, you share those feelings and then I think you answer every question they have to the best of your ability."

Kaslow said some kids may not want to talk at first, so interaction is key.

"They might draw about it, they might play about it and those are also ways we communicate with kids through artwork through play," Kaslow said.

The Cherokee County School District sent a note home to parents informing them of Rivera's death. The district also announced a memorial display of pink and green ribbons will be displayed outside the school later this week.

Copyright 2011 WGCL-TV. All rights reserved.