The world changed on the morning of February 24th. Several conflicts happened and still happen, but social networks and television remind us all the time that another war has started in a neighboring country, Ukraine.
Should we talk about this with our children?
Experts tell us that we must take into account the age of the child.
Preschool-age children, unaware of these events, do not benefit from sharing information about the war.
At school age, it is important to sensitize children and young people about the war, always adapting the speech to their age, ability to understand, maturity and life experiences.
8 tips for talking about war with children and young people
- Allow them to express their feelings;
- Actively listen to what they already know about the subject;
- Value and validate the feelings they describe;
- Make sure they are safe;
- Reinforce that there is hope for peace, remind them that many people are working hard around the world to stop the conflict and find peace;
- Avoid stereotypes referring to “good countries” and “bad countries”, thus promoting tolerance and compassion;
- Watch the news together when it comes to older children/young people;
- Monitor possible levels of stress regarding the topic.
Remember, more informed, empathetic and emotionally healthy children and young people will also be “makers” of peace!
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