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Discussing the topic of war with children can be an intimidating task for parents. However, engaging in thoughtful dialogue can assist young minds in processing their emotions and comprehending the information they encounter.
Expert guidance can provide parents with effective strategies for navigating this challenging subject. Here are some insights from professionals on how to approach conversations about war with children.
The conflict in the Middle East receives extensive coverage across a variety of platforms, ranging from social media to traditional news channels. Despite parents’ efforts to shield their children, it’s likely they will encounter related content, which may foster anxiety and stress, especially as related events affect communities in the United States.
Rebecca Smith, the global head of child protection at Save The Children, emphasized the gravity of the situation: “What is happening across the Middle East and the wider region is frightening for both children and adults,” she commented in an interview with Huffington Post UK.
Dr. Emily Crosby, a child and educational psychologist, alongside experts from Save the Children and the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), have outlined five key strategies to aid parents in discussing war with their children. These tips aim to foster understanding and provide reassurance amidst distressing news.
Listen and validate their concerns
The experts from Save the Children suggest that acknowledging and validating the concerns of children, not only about this topic, but all others, is great parenting. Reassuring them and listening will help parents curb misunderstanding, offer them a sense of compassion and understanding, and it will also allow parents the opportunity to encourage children to feel what they feel.
Dr Crosby agrees. “Validate any feelings and emotions they may have on the topic,” she advised. “Always listen to what they have to say and be careful about [sharing] your own views, give them space.”
Think about what news they are exposed to
The experts suggest that parents utilize parental controls while their children are online so that they will know and can somewhat control exactly what their children are being exposed to.
“It’s important to be mindful of how much news exposure you provide children,” Dr Crosby said. She said too much exposure can increase distress and lead to confusion.
Tackle misinformation head-on
Dr. Crosby suggests that parents tackle misinformation head-on and “carefully challenge” the information if it is coming from friends and family. Providing accurate information early can help ease unnecessary fear.
Place limits on news consumption
“Whilst you cannot avoid the topic altogether, be careful of how much you allow this into the family home,” Dr. Crosby said. Too much of something is not necessarily a good thing.
Use age appropriate language
You know your child and you know what language they can and cannot absorb or handle. Talk to them on their level.
“Focus on what they can control and what they cannot control,” Dr Crosby said. Save The Children added that it’s important we are “careful not to over-explain the situation or go into too much detail as this can make children unnecessarily anxious”.