How To Help Kids Cope When the News is Scary

The Hub: How To

Written by Malisa Rader, Human Sciences Specialist, ISU Extension and Outreach

Closeup of adult hands holding child hands in a comforting gesture.

Keep Regular Routines

Children take comfort in pre­dictable daily activities such as dinner at the kitchen table and bedtime rituals.

Watch Your Emotions

When adults maintain a calm and optimistic attitude, chil­dren will also.

Talk it Over

Provide reassurance, clear up misconceptions and point out the helpful people in emergency situations. Young children might also express themselves through drawing or in their play.

Limit Your TV Viewing

Monitor what is on tele­vision and for how long. Young children may not understand that scenes repeating on news stations are all the same event.

Limit Your TV Viewing

Monitor what is on tele­vision and for how long. Young children may not understand that scenes repeating on news stations are all the same event.

Find Healthy Ways to Cope

Taking a walk together, reading a favorite book, or playing a board game can be comforting.

Take Action

Doing something such as sending a donation or writing a letter can empower your child to feel part of the response.

Seek Professional Advice

If your child shows symp­toms of distress such as a change in appetite or sleep patterns, speak with your child's physician or a mental health professional. You also can contact ISU Extension and Outreach's Iowa Concern hotline at I-800-447-I985.