Even in homes where attempts are made to protect them, children are hearing about the war in Ukraine.  Some overhear their parents’ conversations or phone calls, some hear the news on in the next room, and others engage with friends on the bus, at school and on social media. (Crisis Management Institute) The following tips and articles may be helpful when navigating how to talk to your children about what is happening in the Ukraine. 

Try Not to Shield Them

Try not to shield your child completely from the news or avoid questions they may have, since it is likely they will hear about the war in Ukraine through friends at school, by overhearing conversations or by coming across it online. Give basic, factual information and use reliable resources to support you in having age-appropriate conversations.

Explore Their Feelings

Explore with your child how they are feeling and respond by giving lots of comfort and reassurance. Let them know about the organisations, movements and people who are helping to stop the war. Ask your child what would help them at this time to make them feel less worried or safe.

Avoid Giving Too Much Detail

Try not to describe what the scenes in Ukraine look like in graphic detail, and avoid showing your child graphic or upsetting images.

Stick to Your Normal Routine

Routines can provide children with comfort and stability at a time when they are likely to feel worried or overwhelmed.

Be Aware of Your Own Feelings

Young children tend to soak up the feelings of adults around them. Be mindful of the types of conversations you have at home, and with others over the phone when talking about the events in Ukraine.

Reinforce Positive Actions

It can be difficult to remain hopeful or positive at the moment, however it is important to reassure your child that lots of organisations and people are working hard to end the war in Ukraine and support people who are being impacted. Plan with your child ways you can help, for example raising money or donating clothes.

• How to Talk to Kids About Ukraine (New York Times)

• How to Talk With Students About the Russia-Ukraine War: 5 Tips (Education Week)

• Talking With Youth About Ukraine (Crisis Management Institute)

• Resilience in a Time of War: Tips for Parents and Teachers of Elementary School Children (American Psychological Association)

• How to Talk to Kids About Ukraine (Washington Post)

• How to Talk to Your Kids About the Crisis Unfolding in Ukraine (Very Well Mind)