What can we say to children in Ukraine, and how can we address their concerns about war?

What to Say to Kids in Ukraine

In middle school and high school, social studies teachers provide up-to-date information and try to help students understand the news. However, these conversations may vary from classroom to classroom. In other words, instead of assuming that schools are on top of discussing current events, parents should start these conversations with their children.

It is recommended to start talking to children about Ukraine by asking them what they already know. This can give you insight into their origins and allow you to correct any misinformation. After you've established their basic knowledge, what you share next should depend on your child's age, maturity, and emotional sensitivity.

For elementary school-aged children, the advice is to be straightforward and matter-of-fact. You can tell them, she said. At that age, that might be enough. Middle school and high school students may be more interested in some history and the role the United States plays in dominating the economy, Kingdon said, and it would be appropriate to provide more details at this age if kids want it. ?Addressing Children's Worries About War

Sometimes the hardest questions to answer stem from anxiety. While we can look up information we don't know, questions like what if the war continues to get worse and the United States has to intervene? There is no simple answer. Let them know it's normal to worry about things like this, and you can acknowledge that this is a scary time and those are scary thoughts, she says. You can also reassure them that there are no signs that these things are going to happen right now, and you can encourage them to just focus on what they know is happening right now.

She has had several conversations with her fourth-grade daughter about Ukraine, usually because of what her children heard on the news or from other adults. While she answered her daughter's question first, the conversation could open the door to a larger discussion about family values ??and how countries are connected.

It's also a great way to talk about things more holistically, she said, by sharing what we want to offer the world. Once you start the discussion, say something to leave the door open for further dialogue, like: If you have any other questions for me, I'm here. Things are changing all the time, so we can continue to talk about it over time. Check in with your child after a few days.