Talking to Kids about Ukraine

With 24/7 access to the media, it can be challenging to monitor what kind of access our kids have to the news, especially during times of turmoil. Right now, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine weighs heavy on many hearts and minds with more questions available than answers.

Seeing and hearing about local and world events can causes some children to experience stress, anxiety, and fear.

To ensure you’re ready for conversations on such heavy topics:

Educate yourself, and processes your own emotions.
Make sure you have the correct information to deliver to inquiring minds.
Ensure you are finding good quality information that avoids misinformation. A good resource is Psychology Today’s Misinformation and Trauma: How to Watch a War Online

In these discussions, the most important thing for your child is to make them feel secure by helping them feel safe and heard. The tips below can help.

Let your children know that you are open to talking about the war in Ukraine, but don’t force children to have the conversation if they are not ready.
- Anticipate questions your children may have and be prepared to answer.
- Ask your child what they have heard, and if they have any questions.
- Repeat information as necessary. Some of the information may be hard to accept or understand. Your children may require additional reassurance, and may repeat questions they’ve already asked.
Limit how many news stories/posts with violent or upsetting images you’re viewing.
- If they are watching the news, it is better for them to watch with you than alone.
Give honest answers and information. If you’re making up answers they will eventually find out, which could impact their ability to trust you or your reassurances in the future.
Keep it age appropriate using words and concepts your child can understand.
- Some children may not express their feelings through talking. Encourage them to play, draw pictures, or write.
Acknowledge and validate your child’s thoughts, feelings, and reactions. Be reassuring, but don’t make unrealistic promises.
- Let the children know that they are safe in their house or school, but don’t tell them when conflict will end, or that it could never happen again.
- Understand that children process information through a limited experience of the world and will tend to personalize situations. They may worry about children in Ukraine, loved ones who are overseas, or that this conflict means their parents may be leaving.
Children may have symptoms like headaches and stomachaches if they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed. If your child is experiencing physical aches and pains with no apparent medical cause, it may be an indicator of anxiety and stress.
Let children know how you’re feeling (there is a good chance they can tell anyway!).
- Letting them know that you’re feeling a certain way will prevent the child from believing that it’s their fault.
Role model good coping skills. Children learn from watching how adults respond.
Children who have experienced trauma in the past are further vulnerable to prolonged or intense reactions to news of war and may require additional support and attention.
Look for signs that your child may need support from a trained and qualified mental health professional.
- Your child is particularly preoccupied with questions about the war.
- ongoing trouble sleeping
- Intrusive thoughts, images, or worries
- Recurring fears about death, leaving parents or going to school.

If you have concerns regarding how to talk to your child about the conflict, or feel they may need additional support, reach out to the MFRC Wellness Team at intake@mfrcedmonton.com or 780-973-4011 ext. 528-6300.

For more information:

Talking to Kids about Ukraine

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