INDIANAPOLIS — Now can be a tough time for parents to talk with their kids about what’s happening in the world around them.
Education expert Jennifer Brinker provides some guidance on helping your kids process bad news.
1. Where do we start with tough topics?
Mrs. Brinker: I would first keep in mind that you have to go by the age of the child to know what is appropriate. With small kids, and I’m talking 6 and under, you absolutely need to limit what all they are hearing and seeing. I love watching the news in my house, but there are certain topics that kids should not hear about because they aren’t at a place developmentally where they can appropriately process it. The older your kids get, though, it is important to have conversations about what they are hearing or are concerned with.
2. How about older kids that might hear something on the news or see something and they seem to want to talk about it?
Mrs. Brinker: In schools, when we lead discussions, we are trying to inform, foster critical thinking skills, and help create the kinds of humans who can tackle these big problems. Asking ‘What did you hear or see?’ and questions like ‘how did that make you feel?’ are crucial. These questions can help guide your conversation.
3. How much is too much to share with kids?
Mrs. Brinker: It is hard to not overshare sometimes. Again, keep in mind that your child’s age and maturity level matter as far as how much you share. Please also remember that we are making critical thinkers, not just clones who think exactly like we do and don’t question things. It is also important to ask ‘do you think everyone feels like you do about that? Why or why not?’ This way kids are thinking of the perspective of others as well.
4. What are pitfalls that parents and educators can face when talking about controversial current events with our kids?
Mrs. Brinker: It is okay to not know everything and to not try and simplify what are very complex issues. Be open to learning more together. Also, you want your child to feel safe, but they are going to realize very quickly if you are diminishing a situation by just telling them not to worry about it. Their anxieties and fears can be helped by ongoing conversations with you. The older your kids get, the more appropriate it is to ask them what their ideas are for solutions too.
Learn about tough topics with your child. There are great resources right at your fingertips. Try to get your news from various sources as well to help yours and their opinions and views be challenged. If you would like more information about how to talk to your kids, read this Common Sense Media article, which breaks down these tough talks by age.