EASE YOUR CHILDREN’S CLIMATE CRISIS ANXIETY

With floods and wildfires across Europe, and ever more worrying predictions about our overheating planet, young people feel afraid for the future – so Emma says parents need to empower them

Global heating is huge news.

Your kids will be hearing harrowing predictions about the future, which could cause anxiety. Schools, TV shows, and social media mean every child in the UK will have a certain understanding about climate change, and if they have ever heard a speech by young activist Greta Thunberg, they may well have some worries about your actions as a family and will want to explore that with you.

DISCUSS THEIR FEARS

Talk to them. If they tell you that they have concerns, recognise that’s a positive thing – it means children are environmentally conscious and that they are growing into discerning individuals. As kids often feel powerless when it comes to dealing with massive issues, empower them. They cannot reduce the world’s carbon emissions to zero, or stop the polar ice caps melting, but they can do their bit to help.

HELP THEM FIND HOPE

Eco-anxiety is a very real issue, so they need to feel that they are contributing positively to the world around them. Together, look at your household products and consider switching to environmentally friendly alternatives if some are harmful to the natural world. Plants and trees are hugely important to nature and gardening is also a form of informal mindful practice, so agree to plant and grow flowers, veggies or window-ledge herbs. This helps your child form a good relationship with nature and will reduce their feelings of helplessness. Look up positive stories, and talk to them about things like the massive advances in renewable energy sources, as concentrating on solutions will ease fears and provide hope.

MAKE SOME CHANGES

As a family, agree not to drive short journeys as walking is great exercise and you’ll cut pollutants. If there is a local issue they are upset about, urge them to write to their MP. If you can afford it, give to a relevant charity. Children are in charge of our future so, with their drive and motivation, they have the power to change the world for the better – encourage them.