Navigating Tough World Topics With Kids

It is no secret that 2020 has been a very interesting year! Some very big and heavy things have happened and are continuing to fill the minds of parents. From the pandemic, the upcoming election and racism, our communities are divided. The question that weighs on parents is ‘how do I talk to my kids about these things?’ We are no experts by any means, as we are continually learning too. The key is educating ourselves as parents first and then putting it into words for our kids.

COVID-19 PANDEMIC

The current pandemic is fluid and things are changing daily. We have all had to make adjustments. For kids this has meant, being away from friends and family, not going to school, wearing masks, etc. Yes, kids are resilient but they have to process things too.

• Make your children feel safe. Stay calm. Reassure your kids that this is temporary and that they, and their caregivers, are going to be fine.

• Give them simple facts about germs.

• Practice wearing masks at home so that they feel more comfortable when they have to wear them in public or at school.

• Have empathy. You don’t have to agree with your child’s thoughts or feelings to acknowledge them without judgment or minimizing.

• Try and maintain a normal routine at home.

• Model behavior. If your kids are not able to spend time with friends, you shouldn’t be either.

Recommended podcasts: https://www.slj.com/?detailStory=Nine-Podcasts-about-COVID-19-KidCasts-coronavirus-audio-libraries

Race and Diversity

Racism has always existed and continues to exist. Our world has been very shaken by recent events and kids were and are not exempt from it.

• Practice and think about what you want to say before you say it. Try and imagine the questions your children may ask so that you are prepared to answer them.

• Ask your children how they feel directly. If your child is afraid of being hurt, explain how you will protect them. Give them hope.

• Explain how to be an ally. Start having conversations about how to stand up for friends and classmates.

Recommended books: https://www.whatdowedoallday.com/childrens-picture-books-about-protest/

https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/childrens-books-about-race-and-diversity

Voting and Elections

Kids love to bring up this topic at the most awkward times! Politics may be taboo but they are important, especially when our country is so incredibly divided. Children sense this and it can be confusing.

• Between the age of 6-12 is a good time to start talking about this topic. Another good indicator is when they start asking questions or making comments.

• Talk about the issues, not politics. There are certain topics kids might understand, at the very basic level: immigration, health care, gun restrictions, and school funding could be some you could explain very simply.

• Try and stay neutral and help them have their own thoughts and ideas.

Recommended books: https://www.readbrightly.com/picture-books-about-elections-voting/