8 Tips for Helping Kids When the News is Scary

Over the past few weeks headlines have been filled with violence and trauma. All of this can lead to feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. Managing this as a child can be even more complex. These tips will help you support the children in your life as they process trauma.

1) Limit media intake. It’s natural for kids and adults to turn to news and social media to try to find answers about what has happened. It’s important to limit how much exposure your child has to this kind of news.

2) Keep routines consistent. As much as possible, keep their daily routines consistent. Keep up familiar patterns such as reading at bedtime, family dinner, or playing at the park. These routines give their brains a chance to release the cortisol instead of storing it as fear.

3) Share information mindfully. When sharing about these events with a child, be sure to speak calmly and offer only as much information as is necessary. As you share the tragedy, also share what steps you and your community are taking to keep them safe.

4) Empathize with them. Let your child know you feel sad, angry, and worried sometimes too. Normalize their feelings, while also giving them tools for how to handle those emotions. For example, “I feel nervous too. Sometimes when I feel that way I like to take a walk.”

5) Focus on attachment. During scary times, it is especially important that kids feel loved, valued, and cared for. Utilize the child’s love language to build attachment. Tell them how special they are, spend time with them playing their favorite game, or give them extra hugs.  

6) Have fun. The language of childhood is play. Encourage your child to engage in activities that they enjoy. Role play and pretend play can be especially helpful in allowing them to process through their emotions about the scary things they have experienced. 

7) Listen well. Be aware that your child may want to talk even when the time isn’t convenient. Make space for them to share and reassure them that their feelings are valid. Statements like “oh you don’t need to worry” will close down rather than encourage conversations.

8) Take care of yourself. Remember to put on your own oxygen mask first. If you are struggling to manage your anxiety or anger about the news, make self-care a priority. Talk to a therapist, spend time doing a hobby, or channel your anger into advocacy.  

It’s important to remember that children have the same capacity for feelings as adults, they just don’t always have the tools to express their feelings or manage them in a healthy way. By following these tips you will help children to heal in the face of tragedy.