How to talk to your kids about war

March 4, 2026 - 21:02

In an era of constant news cycles and global uncertainty, parents are often faced with the daunting task of explaining war and conflict to their children. The challenge lies in addressing frightening realities while providing a sense of safety and understanding.

Parenting expert Bethany Braun-Silva emphasizes that open, age-appropriate dialogue is crucial. She advises parents to initiate the conversation, rather than waiting for children to come to them, as they may have already heard troubling information from peers or media snippets. The first step is to ask what they already know and how they are feeling, which allows parents to correct any misconceptions and address specific fears.

For younger children, Braun-Silva recommends using simple, reassuring language focused on their immediate safety and the helpers involved. With older children and teenagers, discussions can be more complex, exploring the geopolitical context while emphasizing critical thinking about news sources. The key across all ages is to validate their emotions, provide honest but measured information, and reinforce the stability of their own home environment. By creating a space for these tough talks, parents can help children process world events in a healthy, supported way.