Why parents really need to talk to their children about the news

These are strange, anxiety-provoking times. That’s true no matter where one lives or where one sits on the political spectrum; for all of us, it’s upsetting and confusing. If it feels that way for adults, just imagine what it’s like for children who catch snatches of information and conversations they don’t really understand. That’s why it’s really, really important that parents talk to their children about what is going on in our country and our world. It’s important for two reasons: First of all, children hear and see more than we think they do — and can be easily become upset or frightened. We may think that they are oblivious, and perhaps that’s true if they are very small, but unless parents never have the TV or radio news on when children are around, and never discuss current events with anyone when their children are in earshot (and are sure that their children never hear anyone else discuss them), and are 100 percent aware of everything their children see and read on the internet or social media, it’s unlikely that they are oblivious. Without context and reassurance, things that are happening and being said could make children feel downright unsafe. Second, children are impressionable. They pay close attention and learn from everything they see and hear. They especially pay attention to the words and actions of their parents and caregivers, and build what they hear and see into their world view—and into the people they become. If we want the worl...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: In the News Parenting Dr. Claire McCarthy Source Type: news