Talking about the war in Ukraine with children and young people

It is in moments of crisis that we often see society rising to the challenge.

There are many wonderful examples both locally, nationally and internationally of how people are reaching out to those suffering as a result of the war in Ukraine.

Schools have, like many others, been raising funds, collecting essential items and, more recently, offering to host Ukrainian refugees.

Small acts of kindness like this really do make a positive difference.

However fortunate we all are to live in relative peace in the UK, we mustn’t forget though the distress that many amongst us (and particularly children) are suffering as a result of the images from Ukraine, those with relatives caught up in the conflict and those who have lost loved ones.

The following information on how to support children during this time comes from a very helpful guide from a school resource The Key:

■ Start by finding out what your child knows already – Use open-ended questions to give them the chance to tell you what they are thinking and feeling.

■ Tackle the news headon and talk about it openly and calmly – Use real words and don’t shy away from the truth. Be prepared to explain and define key words they might be hearing to help them make sense of what is going on.

■ Stick to the facts – Be careful about talking about speculation and reassurance them that the chance of World War Three breaking out is highly unlikely.

■ Educate them about reliable sources of information – Explain how some stories on social media may be based on rumour or inaccurate information. Reliable sources which are age-appropriate include Newsround.

■ Encourage your child to ask questions and share their feelings – Remember it is okay not to have all the answers.

■ Be a role model – Recognise and manage you own worries first. Take some time for yourself before you address the issues with your child. Explain how you manage your own anxieties around the conflict.

■ Reassure them and let them know that it’s normal to be concerned – Explain that we’re not at war with Russia, that they are safe and the UL is taking steps to help the people caught up in conflict. Encourage and support them to take a break from the news and social media. Over-exposure isn’t helpful to any of us.

■ Do something positive with your child – Organising an aid package to send to Ukraine or countries supporting the humanitarian aid effort.