How To Talk To Kids About Current Events?

Nowadays, children know everything about what’s going on in the world through social media, friends, or the conversations between adults. Sometimes the news is uplifting, for example, the kids of young age taking a stand on environmental or social issues. But sometimes, children cannot understand current events and need an adult to help them know what’s happening.

So, parents need to help their child understand the news or the fact and feel more comfortable by taking these steps: 

1. Find Out If Your Child Already Knows About Current Event.

You should ask your kids questions to know if they know about a current topic. You can ask questions like what they have heard at school or in newspapers about the children going to school. Consider the age and development of your child. Little children may not understand the difference between fantasy and fact. Most kids are able to realize that the news is real by the time of 7 or 8 years of age. Follow your child’s interest. If your child doesn’t seem interested in a particular type of news, don’t push. 

2. Give Honest And Brief Answers.

Tell the honest answer to your children whenever they ask a question, but share only as much as they need to know. Try to help your child feel safe. It’s not a good idea to offer more details than your child needs to know. Listen to them carefully. For some kids, hearing about any natural disaster might make them sad or depressed. Older kids may ask lots of questions that are running in their minds. Focus on what your kids want to know so that you can help them overcome their fears. If you don’t have the answer to a particular question, it’s OK to say you don’t know rather than providing them the wrong information. 

3. Help Your Kids Feel Safe

Motivate your child to talk about current topics. If your child is feeling unsafe about what’s going on, ask her about it. Even when kids are sad about an event, it will be helpful for them to share their fears with you. Encourage the teens to look beyond a news story. Ask why they think an outlet featured a disturbing story. It is an excellent way to turn a scary story into a discussion about the news’s aim. Teach your children to be prepared but not panicked. For example, if the news is about a robbery, make a family plan for what you will do in such conditions. If a disease like Corona Virus is spreading, talk about the ways to protect yourself. 

4. Do Not Talk About News All The Day

Before telling a piece of news to your kid, decide how much part of the news is appropriate for him/her. Decide it on the basis of their age and maturity. You can also encourage them to take breaks from the news when the topics are hard to understand. Notice how often you talk about the news in front of your kids. Excess of anything is not good. Keep in mind that the news is not playing on the TV all day—set limits. Turn off the TV if the information is not appropriate for your child. 

5. Keep the Conversation Interesting

Talk to your child about current events. It’s important to help them understand the stories they hear. Ask questions like: “What are your views on this?” or “How are these things happening according to you?” The child will find it interesting to share what they think a certain topic.

Also Read : How To Help Your Child Realize Their Big Dreams