By Stephanie Osler, LCSW, Child and Adolescent Mental Health at CHKD
News about wars, shootings, disasters, or global crises can be overwhelming for adults—and even more confusing and frightening for children. Because children are still learning how the world works, repeated exposure to graphic news, dramatic headlines, or emotional conversations can increase anxiety and compromise a child’s sense of safety.
While it’s important for adults to stay informed, children do not need constant exposure to distressing news. By managing what they see and hear and providing reassurance, parents can help children feel safe and supported.
Create a Calm Information Environment
Children often absorb more information than parents realize. Limiting exposure to upsetting news can help reduce fear and confusion.
Helpful strategies include:
- Turn off constant news coverage: Avoid leaving TV or radio news on in the background where children might overhear alarming information.
- Remove graphic content: Keep newspapers, magazines, or online articles with disturbing images out of sight.
- Monitor digital media: Social media and video platforms may contain graphic or misleading information, so keep an eye on what your child is viewing.
- Be mindful of adult conversations: Children may overhear discussions about frightening events and misunderstand what they hear.
- Use parental controls: Technology tools can help limit access to disturbing content online.
- Encourage calming activities: Replace extra screen time with reading, games, drawing, or outdoor play to help children focus on normal daily activities.
Talk With Your Child
Children may still hear about stressful events from school, friends, or the internet. Create opportunities for them to ask questions and share how they feel. Provide simple, honest, age-appropriate explanations and reassure them that they are safe. Let them know that many adults in our community, and around the world, are working to help people and to keep our communities safe.
Maintain Routines and Encourage Expression
Daily routines help children feel stable and secure during uncertain times. Keeping regular schedules for meals, schoolwork, play, and bedtime can provide comfort.
Children may also need healthy ways to express their feelings. Encourage activities such as drawing, journaling, playing, or talking together during quiet moments. Listening calmly and validating their emotions helps children feel understood.
Watch for Signs of Stress
Some children may show anxiety through changes in behavior. Watch for signs such as trouble sleeping, frequent stomachaches or headaches, increased clinginess, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. If these behaviors continue, consider speaking with a pediatrician or child mental health professional.
Reassure Your Child
Above all, children need reassurance that the adults in their lives are there to support and protect them. A calm, supportive home environment, along with your presence and attention, can help children feel safe, hopeful, and secure even during difficult times.
