Parents and nannies should prepare in advance and familiarize themselves with the most effective strategies for responding to children’s inquiries about war and other hard-hitting topics in the News.
As our world becomes increasingly connected through technology and media, children are more exposed to global happenings than ever before. With this exposure comes an inevitable reality: kids asking tough questions about difficult or violent incidents they’ve heard or seen in the news.
For parents and nannies, these conversations can be challenging to navigate. Understanding child psychology and utilizing effective parenting techniques are key to addressing these sensitive topics in a way that is honest yet reassuring for children.
Start by Assessing What They Know
Before diving into explanations, it’s important to understand what the child has already absorbed. Children can pick up bits of information from overheard conversations, social media, or TV, and they may form their own narratives.
Ask open-ended questions like, “What have you heard about [the event]?” to gauge their level of understanding and any misconceptions they may have.
Be Honest but Age-Appropriate
It’s crucial to be honest when discussing world events with children. However, the amount of detail you provide should be appropriate for their age and developmental stage. Child psychology research emphasizes the importance of not sharing overly graphic details with young children, as this can induce unnecessary fear or anxiety. Instead, use language they can understand and relate to their world view.
For instance, younger children require less detail and more reassurance. You might say, “Yes, something very sad happened, and people got hurt. But you are safe, and there are many people working to protect us.” Older children and teenagers might be ready for a more in-depth discussion but remember to keep the conversation open and allow them to express their feelings.
A good place to start is to inquire, “What are you looking to understand?” or, “What would you like to know?” and manage their exposure to these topics by refraining from overly detailed explanations.
Maintain a Calm Demeanor
Children often look to adults to assess how they should react in unfamiliar situations. If you appear anxious or upset while discussing the news, children are likely to mirror those emotions.
Make an effort to remain calm and provide a stable environment where they feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions.
Emphasize Positive Actions and Resilience
One of the best ways to alleviate anxiety and helplessness in children is by highlighting positive actions and the concept of resilience.
Discuss the helpers, such as first responders, community leaders, and even ordinary people, who step up to aid others during tough times.
Encourage them to think of ways they can be “helpers” in their communities.
Limit Media Exposure
Overexposure to violent news can be detrimental to children’s mental health. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that parents should limit news consumption and be mindful of what media their children are exposed to, especially during a crisis.
Be present during their media consumption and ready to turn off the TV or close the laptop if the content becomes too intense.
Encourage Ongoing Dialogue
Lastly, ensure your child knows that they can come to you with questions or concerns at any time. Regularly check in with them to understand their feelings and provide the necessary support.
Additionally, do not simply shrug them off with statements like, “Don’t worry about it,” or “You’re too young to understand.” These can lead them to seek the information elsewhere, and that source could take them down a dark path.
Creating an environment of trust and open communication is paramount.
Present the Information without Bias
Avoiding strong biases not only encourages independent thinking but also prevents the perpetuation of generational prejudices and stereotypes. By creating an open dialogue, we give children the tools to form their own beliefs, ensuring a more inclusive and understanding future generation.
Remember, our role is to guide and educate, allowing the young minds in our care to flourish and form their own unique worldviews.
Highlight the Importance of Empathy
Teach by example that understanding and empathy are essential. If you can, keep the overall focus on the conversation on empathy and not on choosing sides. Explain that people’s actions and beliefs are shaped by various factors, including their history, culture, and experiences. Emphasize that while we might not always agree with others, we can strive to understand their feelings and perspectives.
Stay United as Caregivers.
Parents and nannies, stay alert to these global incidents and decide in advance how you wish to present the information to the children. Ensure everyone is on the same page with the details to prevent confusion or misinformation among the young ones.
Navigating discussions about difficult or violent world happenings is challenging for any caregiver. Still, with these insights rooted in child psychology and effective parenting techniques, you can ensure these conversations are constructive, reassuring, and promote resilience in children. Remember, it’s not just about providing answers but also about teaching children how to cope with the world around them.
