Schools across central Illinois are closing their doors for the summer, but the fear of violence may not be out of reach.

Champaign therapist Trevor Kendrick says parents can sometimes be afraid to talk to their children about gun violence in schools.

But she urges parents to do so, so thoughts of shootings don't stick around.

"It causes kids to feel like 'see it's about to happen,'" Kendrick said. "They tend to focus this idea that it truly could happen. It's not in just another state."

She reminds parents listening is a key factor.

"You should allow your children to openly share their feelings as well as ask any questions that they need to," Kendrick said.

Mahomet Seymour Superintendent Lindsey Hall hopes students will use the summer break to unpack any stress from the violence in Uvalde.

"I hope they take a moment to heal and have a safe summer," said Hall. "Our nation needs to heal"

There have been several times this school year where students have brought guns to schools in central Illinois.

Those schools include Centennial High School in Champaign, Rantoul Township High School, and Lee Elementary School in Springfield on the same day as the Texas shooting.

Kendrick says parents should remind kids the chances of an incident are still unlikely.

"Let their children know school shootings do happen, but the odds of it occurring are low," Kendrick said.

Kendrick also recommends parents also have a plan in place for their kids when a gun is present while they're hanging out with friends.

She says that plan should include their child leaving from where the gun is.