Talking to Kids About War: How Parents Can Ease Anxiety in an Unsettling World

Written by: Re'Shae Green

With so much turmoil happening around the world—wars in Ukraine, Gaza, Sudan, and other regions—it’s not just adults feeling the weight of it all. Children are seeing and hearing more than we realize. Whether it’s from the news, conversations at school, or social media, kids are picking up on the fear, confusion, and sadness surrounding global events. As parents, knowing how to talk to your children about war can help ease their anxiety and create a sense of safety in a world that often feels anything but.

Why Kids Feel Anxious About War

Even if they don’t fully understand what’s happening, children can sense tension and distress—both in their environment and from the adults around them. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that kids exposed to distressing news or traumatic images may experience:

• Trouble sleeping

• Frequent questions about safety

• Separation anxiety

• Sudden mood changes

• Increased clinginess or withdrawal

And according to a 2022 Pew Research Center report, nearly 70% of U.S. teens said they feel anxious about global crises, including war and climate change.

How to Talk to Your Child About War and Conflict

Here are some ways to open up the conversation and support your child’s emotional well-being:

1. Start by Asking What They Know

Instead of jumping in with facts, ask:🗨️ “What have you heard about what’s going on in the world?”This gives you a chance to correct misinformation, gauge their fears, and meet them where they are emotionally.

2. Be Honest—But Age-Appropriate

It’s okay to acknowledge that war is scary and sad. For younger children, use simple language:🗨️ “Some countries are having big fights, and people are getting hurt. That’s not okay, and there are people trying to help.”For teens, you can dive deeper into the complexity of conflict while still centering safety and hope.

3. Reassure Their Safety

Children need to hear that they are safe. Even if they see frightening images, remind them that war is not happening where they live and that you are doing everything possible to protect them.

4. Limit Their Exposure

Set boundaries around how much news they’re watching or scrolling through. Constant exposure to violent or emotional content can overwhelm even the most resilient child. Consider watching or reading updates together, then talking about what you both saw.

5. Teach Coping Tools

Share calming techniques they can use when they feel overwhelmed, like:

• Deep breathing

• Drawing or journaling

• Listening to music

• 5-4-3-2-1 grounding exercises

Make a “calm corner” at home with comfort items like stuffed animals, art supplies, or quiet books.

6. Take Action as a Family

Helping others can reduce feelings of helplessness. Consider:

• Donating to relief efforts

• Writing letters or cards for peace

• Attending community events that promote kindness and unity

This teaches your child that while we can’t fix everything, we can still make a positive difference.

What to Watch For

If your child continues to show signs of anxiety—nightmares, persistent worry, appetite changes, or difficulty focusing—consider speaking to a pediatrician or child therapist. It’s not a sign of weakness—it’s a step toward strength and healing.

Final Thought for Parents

Your calm presence is more powerful than any headline. By being open, listening without judgment, and creating a secure space for your child to talk, you’re giving them the most important comfort of all—the knowledge that they are not alone.