Talking to Kids About War & Tragedy Is Hard: 5 Things Parents Can Do to Help Their Children by Dr. Christina Hibbert

Kids Fatherhood
5 months ago

Talking to Kids About War & Tragedy Is Hard: 5 Things Parents Can Do to Help Their Children

Tragic events such as terrorist attacks, mass shootings and war are hard enough for parents to comprehend. So how do we talk with our children about these horrible things and allay their fears and anxieties? 

We do live in an unstable world, but there are things we can do to reduce the fear and worry. Helping my own and other children through traumatic events, I've learned these things:

  • Talk with children honestly. Communicate with them openly about the event using age-appropriate language. 
  • Allow their feelings. Be there for them; show them that it's normal to feel the way they do.
  • Teach kids how to grieve. Show your children that we all grieve when tragedy occurs, and grief is essential to healing. It's natural to cry.
  • Reassure them that it will be OK. If you're OK, they'll be OK, so seek help and support for yourself if you need it.
  • Love them. Truly, love heals all wounds, so keep them close and love them more than ever. 

Get more information on healing from trauma and more on children and grief.

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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Jill Ceder, LMSW, JD
These are great tips! It can be confusing to know what is appropriate to discuss with your kids at different ages.
Elisa Schmitz
Wonderful words to inspire and help during extremely difficult times. Thank you, Dr. Christina Hibbert !!
Julie Rose
I’m so sad that we need this information yet again, thank you.
Ca Mike
I read your post, really, it left me so much impressed with this article, I hope you will have more great articles to share with readers, thank you.
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