In times of community or world-wide crisis, it's easy to assume that young children don't know what's going on. But one thing's for sure -- children are very sensitive to how their parents feel. They're keenly aware of the expressions on their parents' faces and the tone of their voices. Children can sense when their parents are really worried, whether they're watching the news or talking about it with others. No matter what children know about a “crisis,” it’s especially scary for children to realize that their parents are scared.
In times of crisis, children want to know, "Who will take care of me?" Here are some tips from PBS KIDS and PBS Parents to help reassure children during scary times.
PBS Parents: Helping Children with Tragic Events in the News
Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood: When Something Scary Happens
Arthur: Helping Kids During Challenging Times
Fred Rogers Institute: Talking with Children about Difficult Things in the News (PDF)