How to Talk to Kids About Scary News and Disasters

Initial Check-in and Age-Appropriate Language

• 💡 Start by checking in with your child rather than overwhelming them with information.
• ✅ Use honest but age-appropriate language to explain events.
• 💬 For younger children, focus on the presence of helpers on the way or already present.
• 🧠 For older children, provide factual information to answer their questions directly.
• ⚠️ It's crucial for parents to manage their own emotions to avoid transferring fear and sadness to their children.

Focusing on Helpers and Limiting Exposure

• 🤝 When discussing disasters, emphasize the role of helpers like neighbors, first responders, scientists, and journalists to foster hope.
• 🚫 Limit exposure to the 24/7 news cycle, especially for older children who consume content on social media.
• 🔍 Regularly check in on what children are viewing on social media to understand what they are absorbing.

Reestablishing Routines and Physical Connection

• 🏠 When the outside world feels uncertain, reestablish and double down on home routines to create stability.
• 📚 This can include longer bedtime routines, reading together, or taking family walks.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Insist on family dinners and engaging in connection to strengthen bonds.
• 🤗 Physical connection like hugs, cuddles, and hand-holding is vital for borrowing each other's nervous systems and calming anxiety.

Empowering Children with Action and Control

• 🚀 Encourage taking small actions to give children a sense of control in overwhelming situations.
• 💌 Examples include writing letters to first responders, donating toys, or raising money.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Performing these actions as a family can help address feelings of fear and stress in the moment.

Emergency Preparedness

• 🏡 Develop a family plan for emergencies that occur both inside and outside the home.
• 📞 This includes establishing meeting points and methods for contacting each other.
• 🗣️ Having these proactive conversations is key to helping children feel more secure.