Navigating conversations with children about war, conflict and other traumatic events
ABC News
Experts say adults can help children cope with the latest conflict in the Middle East by making space for conversation, validating their feelings and limiting exposure to frightening or inaccurate information
The latest conflict in the Middle East is developing quickly and deeply complex, which can make it difficult for children to make sense of events they see unfolding on social media, hear adults anxiously discussing or are experiencing in real life. Experts say exposure to war, even if it is indirect, can affect how kids think, feel and behave.
Child psychologists and development experts say talking about it may help.
“Sometimes adults think if they don't talk about something that is difficult, than it doesn't exist. But we know that's not the reality in children's lives,” said Rebecca Smith, the global head of child protection at Save the Children, an international aid and advocacy organization. “Ignoring or avoiding the topic of conflict can lead to children feeling lost, alone and scared. ... It is essential to have open and honest conversations with children to help them process what is happening."
Below are suggestions for having conversations with children about war and its impacts.
Experts recommend starting with what a child might know about what is happening in Ukraine, Gaza, Iran, Israel, Sudan or other parts of the world before attempting to address any feelings of fear, sadness, anger or anxiety.
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