Talking to children about crises
Children quickly notice when something is wrong – from the news, from adults' conversations, from the mood at home. Silence rarely reassures them. Honest, simple words do.
Listen and answer honestly
- Take your child's worries seriously and do not leave them alone with their fears.
- Listen when they ask questions and answer honestly, simply and clearly.
- Do not push them to talk. Some children need time.
- Explain your own feelings in a way your child understands. That way they learn: feeling unsure in a crisis is normal.
Give them security
Children need to feel protected. Sentences like "We are looking after you" or "We are prepared" help. A supply at home and a family plan are good for this too – you can honestly say that you have taken care of things.
Doing things together helps as well. For emergencies, the BBK also recommends a neck pouch or SOS capsule with the child's name, date of birth and address.
Every child reacts differently
Some children find it hard to concentrate, have nightmares, are anxious or irritable. Others show no reaction at all. Meet all of this with understanding. Older children often process feelings by drawing or writing, younger ones through play.
Measure the news
Watch age-appropriate news together rather than letting children watch alone. Limit your own media use too – fixed times of day help everyone.
When to get help
Most reactions to crises are normal. If you are very worried, talk to your child's paediatrician, a counselling service or a child and adolescent psychotherapist.
- Austria: Rat auf Draht, phone 147, the emergency line for children and young people
- Germany: Nummer gegen Kummer, free for children, young people and parents