How to talk to children about conflict in the Middle East

The conflict in Iran and the Middle East is currently making headlines, which our children may encounter and be upset or worried by. As adults, we can find ways to reassure these concerns and hold productive and reflective conversations about what's happening in the world. This blog shares four tips to navigate sensitive news stories, such as news of conflict in the Middle East, with children at school and home. Access the Picture News Middle East Special Resource here for more support. In today's digital world, children can more easily access content about current affairs online, such as the conflict in Iran, that may worry or upset them. Some advice to get started This story should be shared in a calm, factual and reassuring way . Avoid graphic details, images of conflict or political debate . Emphasise that the events are complex , but there are many adults and organisations are working towards safety and peaceful solutions . Provide reassurance to pupils and allow space for questions , as some children may have personal connections to the region. 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 . It may be appropriate to share more details 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. Figuring 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 in response to the news story. Try visual aids, art, post-its, emotion cards and smiley faces, alongside talk-based approaches. 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 can be important life lessons , or examples of humanity and resilience in challenging times. For example, communities may stand together during challenging times, or people may volunteer or donate in response to an incident, showing positive attributes of empathy and teamwork. 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 further support in discussing sensitive news about Iran and the Middle East with children, explore the special resource here. The YouTube video below further explores the ways we can handle sensitive news with children: Watch on YouTube