Our Children Move Through Fear and Uncertainty to Strength
As you know, there is a lot to be concerned about in the world right now. Our children are very aware of the issues such as climate change and its environmental impacts, the conflict in Ukraine, rising global pressures between nations and mounting social tensions. They will unavoidably pick up information from the media, conversations with friends, or overhearing adult conversations.
Talking about our concerns decreases distress and worries.
Our job, as the adults guiding them through their developmental years, is to try to help them make sense of the world and keep them hopeful and positive about their futures. This might sound challenging when we are also unsure about the state of the world.
I’ve collated a small list of articles which offer very useful suggestions for how you can talk with your children of all ages about the uncertainties they may be worrying about.
Building Resilience in Turbulent Times, from Andrew Fuller includes a handy tip sheet on what parents can look out for, say and do to guide their children.
How to Talk to Kids About Violence, Crime, and War by common sense media (my go to check if an app, movie or series is appropriate for children), has age appropriate suggestions for talking with children about distressing events.
Supporting Youth Affected by the War in Ukraine: Tips for Caregivers and Educators has excellent tips for not only discussing Ukraine, but how adults can look after themselves, teach children coping strategies, minimise negative impacts and have positive discussions about difficult topics.
SPECIAL REPORTS | Hume Anglican Grammar (schooltv.me) has a wealth of evidence-based information for parents on how to support children on many current issues such as the Ukraine conflict, natural disasters, maintaining hope, and Covid fatigue. If you haven’t yet browsed SchoolTV, spend some time looking over the many high quality videos, resources and links which are sure to help make parenting easier as you grow healthy, happy and successful young minds.
Remember that the staff at Hume Anglican Grammar are available to support you as you guide your children.
It is strong to ask for help.