Talking to Kids about War
As hostilities in Ukraine escalate, our children may see or hear things on the news that can cause anxiety and fear. They probably do not fully understand and they may have questions that can be difficult for us, as parents, to answer.
Here are some quick tips to help you talk to your child about the war in Ukraine and other catastrophic events...
Here are some quick tips to help you talk to your child about the war in Ukraine and other catastrophic events...
Make time and LISTEN when your child wants to talk.
Make time and LISTEN when your child wants to talk.
Let them tell you what they know and how they feel without judgement.
Allow them to ask questions.
Tailor the conversation to your child.
Tailor the conversation to your child.
Offer age appropriate explanations.
Do not over explain or go into too much detail. This can cause unnecessary anxiety.
Validate their feelings.
Validate their feelings.
Provide a safe space for them to be open and honest.
Reassure them that adults all over the world are working together to resolve this.
Reassure them that adults all over the world are working together to resolve this.
Stay calm during your conversation with your child.
Remind children this is not their problem to solve
Give them a practical way to help.
Give them a practical way to help.
Create fundraisers, send letters to decision makers, or create drawings calling for peace.
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