How to talk to children about conflict and war

The news often includes stories about conflict around the world - from the war in Ukraine, to conflict across the Middle East including Gaza and Iran. Children may come across this news and want to talk about it with adults at home or in school. This blog offers support for adults in handling difficult news with children, in a way that's age-appropriate and sensitive. 1. Timing Discussing what’s happening in the news during the mornings can work well, so that children have the rest of the day to ask you further questions or continue conversations later in the day. Some children prefer to have more time to reflect on the news and how it makes them feel. Making plenty of time is an important step to comfort and reassure children, by listening to them, responding to their questions, and engaging in productive conversations. 2. Consider the details The information you share with children will differ depending on their age and developmental stage . Firstly, you may wish to figure out what they already know and understand (keep reading for communication strategies to talk about the news together). It may be appropriate to share more details and context with older children. Try explaining the news using relatable concepts or events with younger children. Remember – you don’t have to have all of the answers! Honesty is important when dealing with sensitive news. Working out what’s happening as it's unfolding can be something you navigate together. Before sharing any visual content with children to help explain what’s happening, remember to vet all images and video content. 3. Allow for emotional expression Provide children with opportunities to reflect on and express their emotions and responses to the news story. Each child responds differently, so try visual aids, art, post-its, emotion cards and smiley faces to prompt communication, alongside open-ended, talk-based approaches. You know your children best! Doing so can support children’s comprehension and processing of events, whilst addressing their responses and building self-awareness, as they discover and share how the news makes them feel. 4. Share the positives too Found within sensitive news about war and conflict can be important life lessons , or examples of humanity and resilience in challenging times. For example, communities may stand together during times of conflict, or people may volunteer or donate in response to wars breaking out, showing positive attributes of empathy and compassion. Try supporting children to consider how they can use their voice, raise awareness and make a difference to what’s happening in the world. For more child-friendly news content, explore the latest Picture News resource here . Each pack focuses on a story from around the world, with discussion prompts and differentiated follow-up activities.