(Posted 2026 March)

When violence is in the news it can stir up difficult feelings. Children who have experienced trauma can be more deeply impacted by the effects of these events.

While the physical threat of war may be far away geographically, the uncertainty and instability of any military operation can set families and friends on edge, especially in a region like ours with a huge military population. 

When there are acts of domestic violence, terrorist attacks, or road rage in the news, it can be triggering for children who may have experienced trauma in their homes. It’s important for all kinds of parents and caregivers to have a framework and a vocabulary for talking to children about these incidents in a way that is calming and affirming.

So how do you begin to have these hard conversations and support children, especially those in adoptive, foster, and kinship homes after violent news?

Understanding the Facts
Kids often pick up more than we realize by means of overheard adult conversations, a television that is on in the background, or images on a phone or other screens. Having only part of the story might be scarier for them than having all the facts. Silence from the trusted adults in their lives may generate more insecurity.

Be Mindful of How Children Might Present Trauma
Sometimes children’s feelings and reactions to violence in the news may show up in regressive behaviors such as bedwetting and nightmares for younger kids or insomnia and withdrawal for older kids. Acting out could be a sign at any age. It just might look different for a 6-year-old versus a 16-year-old. This guide to Age Related Reactions to A Traumatic Event may be a helpful resource.

Be Supportive and Listen Well

1. Ask questions about what children have heard or seen. Be prepared to correct misunderstandings or misinformation. Make sure you speak in clear, concise, age-appropriate terms.
2. Validate their feelings and don’t diminish their perspective. Don’t blame your child for what they might have seen.
3. Encourage your child to express their emotions safely. Anger, sadness, disbelief, shock, grief, and fear are all valid responses to community violence. Name feelings and use calming strategies such as mindful meditation, breathing exercises, or movement activities.
4. It’s important to reassure children of their safety through your words and deeds. Tell them that they are safe. Keep predictable routines for mealtimes, school, and bedtimes. Keeping things consistent at home will provide a sense of stability and order especially for children who have experienced a lot of change in their lives.
5. Limit media exposure in your home for your children's well-being and your own.
6. Take care of mental health needs for all members of your family. You can’t pour from an empty cup. So, make sure that you are kind to yourself so you can have the reserves to draw from as a caregiver. 

Children need you to help them feel safe when violent and scary things happen around the world or in your community. Be a listening ear and a supportive, caring constant they can count on. 

For more advice like this, the Parenting Education Programs is offering several upcoming workshops and Parent Cafés specifically to help you support healthy child development for kids 0-18 years old.