Within the context of the war in the Ukraine, many of us are stressed and worried.
As adults, we have some perspective.

Our children however need us to help them manage this emotionally challenging time.

Psychologist and SACC by EJC expert Yotam Dagan shares a few tips to properly address the current war to children:

1. Talk about the war.
Explain but avoid giving too much information, express your emotions and concerns, but reassure them that you are there with them and that this will eventually ‘go away’.
2. Listen to your children’s concerns, answer their questions.
Validate their fears (it is really scary).
3. Stay away from the news.
TV, internet, and other media outlets bombard us with raw, terrible footage showing the carnage and destruction. It runs in loops and generates anxiety. Do not keep the TV in the living room on. Check for updates when the children are not around you.
4. Stick to habits, rituals, and normal timelines:
Bedtime, dinner together as a family, play time in the living room.
5. Take that old cart with board games
And have an hour of playful distraction.
6. Do things that you and your children like
Go out and enjoy activities together.
7. Hold that inner belief that things are going to be okay.
This will pass on to your children in nonverbal hugs and through your loving eyes.