Five tips on how to talk to children about war

The situation of the world right now can be daunting and stressful for anyone, but especially for children.

With conflicts and wars taking over daily news coverage, children in your life have probably approached you with tough questions, looking for answers and explanations to their worries.

We understand talking about war can be a complex and distressing topic, but taking the time to listen and talk to them about their worries will help them feel more calm and in control.

Our team of child psychologists have created this guide with five tips on how to make these conversations a little easier. Version française disponible ici.

1. Make time and listen

Give children the space to talk then they want to - even if you're in the middle of something else!

Encourage them to tell you what they know, how they feel and to ask you questions. 

Hamid* (12) has received psychosocial support from a Save the Children clinic in Al Gezira State, Sudan. Mosaab Hassouna / Save the Children

2. Tailor the conversation to the child

Older children will need more details while younger ones may be satisfied just by understanding that countries fight. 

Be informed, stay calm and answer questions honestly. 

Begin with simple information as too much detail may overwhelm them and cause anxiety.

3. Validate their feelings

Speak to the child about how they feel.

It is important that children feel supported in the conversation. They should not feel judged or have their concerns dismissed. 

When children have the chance to have an open and honest conversation about things upsetting them, they can feel relieved.

 Olena*(4) plays in the sports area in the bomb shelter of her kindergarten in Ukraine. Anastasiia Zahoskina/Save the Children

4. Reassure them

Remind them this crisis is not their problem to solve. Adults all over the world are working hard to fix the situation. 

They shouldn't feel guilty playing, seeing their friends and doing the things that make them feel happy. 

5. Give them a practical way to help

For example, they could start fundraisers, write letters to local decision-makers or create drawings calling for peace. 

Children who have the opportunity to help can feel like they are part of the solution instead of feeling hopeless.

Following the February earthquake, a group of children draw during a psychosocial support session in Türkiye. Osman Yıldız / Save the Children Türkiye.

Version française disponible ici.

We all want our children to have a sense of safety, a feeling of calm, and hope for the future. If you liked this article and found it useful, save it and share it with family and friends as a handy resource for when children need support and hope.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW WE SUPPORT CHILDREN LIVING THROUGH CRISES.