When the News is Scary

Supporting Your Child Through Difficult News

When tragic events dominate the headlines, parents often wonder how to help their children process what's happening. While we might think young children aren't aware of world events, they're incredibly perceptive to their parents' emotions and the atmosphere in their home.

Understanding Your Child's Perspective

Children can't tell the difference between what's close and what's far away, what's real and what's pretend, or what's new and what's re-run. Children experience news differently than adults. They may:

• Struggle to distinguish between repeated video footage and new events

• Feel that distant events are happening close to home

• Have difficulty separating reality from pretend

• Focus intensely on emotional expressions and reactions of people on screen

Creating Security in Uncertain Times

Children's primary concern during crisis is often "Who will take care of me?" Here's how to help them feel secure:

Limit Media Exposure

Turn off the TV when possible. Young children can be overwhelmed by repeated exposure to disturbing images and news coverage. Instead, spend quality time together away from screens.

Maintain Routine

Keep daily patterns as normal as possible. Regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and activities help children feel safe and secure when the world seems uncertain.

Listen and Validate

If your child asks questions, start by asking what they think happened. Validate their feelings by letting them know it's normal to feel scared or sad. You might say, "I'm worried too, but I'm here to take care of you."

Focus on Helpers

Direct attention to the people helping: medical workers, emergency responders, volunteers, and community members. This shows children that good people are working to make things better.

Taking Positive Action

Help your child feel empowered by:

• Reading comforting stories together

• Engaging in nurturing play

• Taking action as a family (making donations, writing letters of support)

• Spending extra time together doing enjoyable activities

Remember: your calm presence is your child's greatest source of security during difficult times. By providing comfort, maintaining routines, and offering age-appropriate ways to help, you're teaching valuable lessons about resilience and compassion.

Adapted from guidance by Fred Rogers Productions, PBS; 2024