Talk, Reassure, Support: Helping Children Cope In the Current Situation

These are challenging times, and as we navigate the stress and uncertainty of staying in bomb shelters, it’s so important to have calm and supportive conversations with our children to help them make sense of what’s going on. Kids look to us to understand the world, and the way we talk and act can have a big impact on how they feel. Avoiding the topic might leave them feeling confused or lead them to create their own scary or unrealistic explanations. Here are some tips to help you talk to your children about the current attack on Israel:

Talk with your child on their level

• Use simple language that suits their age and understanding. Don’t assume they don’t understand - even young children can sense the mood around them.
• Start by asking: “What have you heard about what’s happening?” This will help you understand what they already know and correct any misinformation.  
• Be honest, but avoid overwhelming them with unnecessary or frightening details. Stick to the facts that are appropriate for their age.  
• Encourage them to ask questions and answer them with honesty and patience.

Create a safe and calm space at home  

• Even if the outside world feels stressful, home should be a place where kids feel safe, secure, and cared for. 
• Try to keep the atmosphere calm - avoid yelling or arguing in front of your children.  
• Show love through hugs, gentle touch, and giving them your full attention
• Stick to a familiar routine as much as you can.  

Get back into your routine – even just a little

• Establishing a routine helps create stability and security.  
• Stick to regular meals, physical activity, showers, and bedtime as much as possible  
• Simple activities like playing, reading a story, or watching a movie can also make a difference.

Limit your child’s exposure to distressing news  

• Avoid watching the news around your child, especially if it shows upsetting content.
• Keep an eye on what they’re seeing on social media 
• Explain that not everything online is accurate
• Ask them not to share unverified or scary information.

Let them express their emotions

• Fear, sadness, anger, anxiety, and clinginess are normal reactions to an abnormal situation.  
• Give them space to express their feelings without rushing to soothe or dismiss them.  
• Listen patiently, even if they repeat the same questions or concerns.  
• Encourage them to talk about what’s bothering them.  

Help your child find their own ways to relax  

• Each child has unique methods for calming down
• Some children relax through movement (dancing, jumping, walking), while others find comfort in drawing, coloring, creating, organizing, or deep breathing  
• Observe what works best for your child and make time for those activities
• Explore relaxation techniques like guided imagery or soothing music  

Build meaningful connections through shared activities   

• Spending time with friends, family, or helping others fosters a sense of purpose and builds resilience.  
• Arrange get-togethers with friends when you can, call your family, or lend a hand to your neighbors.
• Preparing care packages for soldiers, collecting donations, or writing letters can help build a sense of capability.

Lean on the values that guide your family

• For some children, faith - whether religious, national, or moral - offers a source of meaning and security.  
• Talk about the values that are important to you as a family, such as solidarity, mutual help, and love for your country.  
• Help your child understand how these values help you cope with the current situation.  

Remember, most children bounce back with the support of their parents. But if the distress continues, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. The National Center for Mental Trauma, together with the Dell Foundation, is here to support children who have experienced traumatic events:

Phone: 03-5302663  
Email: mirp.psychiatrianoar@sheba.gov.il