Posted on behalf of Staffordshire Safeguarding Children Board:
As hostilities in Ukraine escalate, children may see and hear things about the crisis in the news, leading to feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and fear, which parents and caregivers need to address, Save the Children’s psychologists warn.
Ane Lemche, a psychologist and child counselor with Save the Children, said
“What is happening in Ukraine can be frightening for both children and adults. Ignoring or avoiding the topic can lead to children feeling lost, alone, and more scared, which can affect their health and well-being. It is essential to have open and honest conversations with children to help them process what is happening”.
Below, experts at Save the Children share five tools and tips that caregivers can use to approach the conversation with children:
- Make time and listen when your child wants to talk
- Tailor the conversation to the child
- Validate their feelings
- Reassure them that adults all over the world are working hard to resolve this
- Give them a practical way to help
See more information on these tips here
