Terrorism And War: How Parents Should Best Discuss Attacks & Violence With Their Children

News of war, terrorism, attacks and violence happen regularly these days and as unfortunate as that may seem, the children could wind up learning about it. Kids might not always understand what they see on TV or the internet and they could have some questions. So, how should parents properly discuss these issues with their children?

It is instinct for parents to protect kids from the ugly realities of war, terrorism, attacks and violence but experts say that it's actually more important to talk about it. The point of having these conversations is to help the children process what they see from media or hear from other kids.

Doing so might also help them feel less scared of what's happening around the world. It will also help them develop good coping skills. "Having information can actually help take away the confusion, and help kids feel better," parenting expert Denise Daniels said, as per Parenting.

With older children, it might be better to start by asking what they know or what they've heard. If they express fear, acknowledge that this is a normal reaction. However, parents must always assure the children of their security. "However horrific the recent events, your chances of being hurt in a terror attack are tiny, so ensure your family focuses on what's good in the world," Channel Mum's Siobhan Freegard stated, via Huffington Post.

One mom, Rachel Mutchler, decided to broach the topic of terrorism to her 8-year-old and 10-year-old children after realizing that they might have to change vacation plans, in the wake of the Paris attack. Mutchler made it clear to her kids that they should not live in fear. But as a matter of safety, they have to pick a new and less conspicuous travel destination. The Mutchler family involved the children in the decisions, per Vice.

For children below five, who might have no concept of how vast the world is outside their usual routines, talking about war, terrorism, attacks and violence should be done in simple terms. Zero in on the basics —there were people hurt but there are also people helping out and making sure that the world is still safe.

Talking about war, terrorism, attacks and violence might also be a good time to teach the kids what they must do to keep themselves safe, such as when they are in a crowded place. Learn more about the best way to approach the dreaded talk on terrorism to kids in the video below.