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Four friends of different ages walking arm in arm along a stone street at dusk, one carrying flowers

Together · 15 min

Talking about the news

When frightening news is everywhere, ask what your child has heard, answer simply and honestly, and help them feel safe.

15 minutesFrom the library, free to readFour steps
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Children hear about wars, disasters and frightening events from screens, friends and overheard conversations. They may not say they are worried. A calm conversation, at their level, can help them make sense of what they have heard and feel safer.

The steps

Four small steps,in your own time.

  1. Ask what they have heard and what they think about it. Start from what they know, not from what you know.

  2. Answer simply and honestly, at their level. It is fine to say: I do not know, or: that is a good question.

  3. Tell them what is being done to help, and what keeps them safe where they are.

  4. Limit how much frightening news is on in the house, and check in again a few days later.

The reason

Why it helps

Children often imagine things worse than they are when nobody explains. Starting with what they know lets you correct misunderstandings. Hearing about the helpers can make a frightening story feel less overwhelming.

A gentle variation

For teenagers, talk about where news comes from, how to tell reliable sources from rumours, and what they could do if they want to help. For younger children, keep it very short and follow with something comforting.

One hand resting over another on a wooden table

WE · TRIBE

Try itwith someone.

If your child wants to help, choose one small thing to do together, such as writing a card or helping a neighbour.

Make it a plan in HIVELIVE, with WE

Try it today

Next time a big news story is everywhere, ask your child what they have heard about it.

Add it to your day

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