Life Kit

What To Tell Kids When The News Is Scary

Jan 7, 2021
Alison Alcuin, who shares her childhood memories of the Vietnam War, discusses how parents can navigate scary news with their kids. She emphasizes the need for tailored conversations that suit a child's emotional readiness. Alison draws on strategies from experts, including the value of allowing children to express themselves through play and storytelling. The talk also highlights finding positivity and community support in distressing times, ensuring youngsters understand there's hope even when the news is tough.
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ANECDOTE

Gorilla Warfare

  • Alison Alcuin, growing up during the Vietnam War, misheard "guerrilla warfare" as "gorilla warfare".
  • She developed a plan to hide from gorillas, highlighting how children can misinterpret news.
ANECDOTE

Formative News Events

  • Anya Kamenetz recalls the Challenger explosion as her most impactful childhood news event.
  • Corey Turner remembers being frightened by constant tornado coverage, illustrating the power of news on young minds.
ADVICE

Control News Exposure

  • Control children's news exposure by not leaving it playing in the background.
  • Avoid letting kids watch or listen to the news without you present to guide them.
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