The world can be complex, and sometimes the news throws even grown-ups curveballs. Difficult or upsetting stories can leave us wondering how to talk to our kids about them. It’s natural to want to shield them from negativity, but staying informed is important too. Here’s how to navigate these conversations and help your children understand sensitive news topics safely and healthily.
Before You Talk
1. Get your facts straight.
You don’t need to be an expert, but having a solid grasp of the basics will help you feel more confident. Review information from reputable sources to better understand the topic before speaking with your children. Remember, admitting when you don’t know something is okay — your kids will appreciate your honesty.
2. Check your emotions.
Sensitive news can be upsetting for adults, too. Take a deep breath and process your feelings first. If you’re overwhelmed, waiting until you’re in a better headspace is fine. It’s important to process your own feelings about the news. Kids are like emotional sponges, so they’re more likely to feel secure during the conversation if you’re calm and collected.
3. Set the stage.
Choose a quiet moment when you won’t be interrupted, maybe during a car ride or while making dinner together. Keep it casual — you don’t want to freak them out by making it seem like a big, scary talk. And remember, this isn’t a one-and-done conversation. You’re opening the door for ongoing discussions as your kids grow and learn.
During the Conversation
1. Listen actively and validate feelings.
When you’re talking with your kid about sensitive news, remember to really tune in. Put your phone away and give them your full attention. If they express worry or confusion, let them know it’s okay to feel that way. You might say something like, “I understand this news is scary. It’s normal to feel upset about it.”
2. Keep it simple and factual.
You don’t need to go into all of the distressing details. Stick to the basics and use words they’ll understand. For example, instead of saying, “There was a catastrophic event with numerous casualties,” try, “A big accident happened, and some people got hurt.” Be honest, but don’t overdo it with dramatic language.
3. Offer comfort and perspective.
After you’ve talked about the tough stuff, make sure to end in a supportive way. Remind your kids that they’re safe and loved. Share some good news, too. This helps balance out the heavy stuff and leaves them feeling more hopeful.
Other Tips to Help
1. Keep calm.
Remember that it’s fine for your children to see your emotions, but don’t rely on them to be your emotional regulators. Let them know that sometimes you also feel overwhelmed by what’s happening in the world, but share the ways you cope and make healthy choices. By validating your own feelings, you model to your children how they can validate their feelings. Calm, healthy expression allows your children to feel safe and secure.
2. Limit the news buffet.
While keeping kids informed is essential, too much news can be overwhelming. Think of it like a buffet — a little bit of everything is fine, but overloading their plate can lead to tummy troubles. Stick to age-appropriate sources and consider watching or reading the news together so you can explain things as you go.
3. Focus on the helpers.
When the news gets heavy, look for the silver linings. Talk about the people working to improve things — firefighters, doctors, or volunteers. It’s like finding the superheroes in real life! This helps kids see that hope and good people are making a difference, even in tough times.
Remember, you don’t need to have all the answers. It’s huge to be there to listen and talk things through.
The OCD & Anxiety Center offers a full-family approach to treatment, including SPACE Parent Training. Learn more about our SPACE program and book and a consultation with us today if you need help navigating this path.
