How to Protect Our Children from Bad News and Social Crises

According to Saed News Family Magazine, citing Asr Iran, these days, we are surrounded by worrying and anxiety-inducing news. Protecting children during times when tragic events are widely covered in the media has become increasingly difficult. These events are everywhere, affecting every aspect of our lives—on city streets, in everyday conversations, in the news, at home, and across social media.

For children, understanding such news is even more challenging, anxiety-provoking, and difficult. It is crucial for parents to be prepared to protect their children from the impact of distressing news and ensure they can offer the necessary support.

Anxiety and Distress Caused by Bad News

Research shows that adults themselves can be affected by continuous exposure to bad news, especially following disasters or violent events. For example, a study conducted after the Boston Marathon bombings in 2013 found that individuals exposed to more than six hours of daily media coverage of the event were more likely to experience acute stress symptoms than those directly affected by the attack.

According to Suzy Burke, a senior psychologist at the Australian Psychology Society, intense media coverage of disasters—such as societal crises, terrorist attacks, plane crashes, floods, or earthquakes—can elicit strong emotional reactions in many people. Young children, in particular, are highly sensitive to such media exposure.

Preschool-aged children may worry that similar events could happen to them or their families. Burke notes that video footage is especially distressing for children and tends to remain more vividly in their minds than photos or audio alone. For these reasons, the World Health Organization and many psychologists emphasize minimizing children’s exposure to disturbing news and preserving their sense of safety.

How to Protect Children from Distressing News

Your child’s age, cognitive development, and maturity are key factors in determining the best ways to protect them. In general, protection strategies can be divided by age:

Children Under 7 Years Old
Young children who encounter distressing news or images on TV may struggle to understand the situation and quickly feel threatened. Their immediate concern is often whether such events could happen to their family or loved ones.

The general guideline is to shield children in this age group from exposure to distressing news in the media and online. This means avoiding discussions about such events when they are present and turning off the news they might otherwise see.

If they do come across distressing news, reassure them: “Don’t worry! Mom and Dad are here. You are safe with us.”

Children Aged 7 to 11
At this age, children become more aware of the news around them and may ask questions. Sometimes they encounter distressing news accidentally and feel anxious, while at other times, they actively seek information.

Parents should share news with their children directly to ensure accurate understanding while still limiting overexposure. Children look to parents for protection and guidance during challenging times, so maintaining an open and honest relationship is essential.

As with younger children, children in this age group may worry about their own safety, and parents may feel concerned about their questions. Keep in mind that children can easily pick up on parental anxiety, which can heighten their own fear. Responses should focus on reassurance and calmness while emphasizing family safety.

Adolescents (12 Years and Older)
Teenagers are more independent and may follow the news on their own and discuss it with friends. Nonetheless, it remains important to dedicate time to talk with them about distressing news, as they may still feel anxious or encounter misinformation.

At this age, adolescents can understand the complexities of situations. Conversations provide an opportunity to answer questions and foster understanding while helping them manage stress.

Maintaining Calm While Discussing Bad News

Children today live in a digital era, with constant access to smartphones, tablets, and 24-hour news cycles. It is unlikely they will be completely unaware of events. Parents may choose to proactively share news in a developmentally appropriate way.

Dr. [Name], a child psychologist and clinical assistant professor at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, recommends the following approach:

1. Consider the child’s age: Tailor the content and method of sharing information according to the child’s developmental level.

2. Provide balanced information: Offer enough details to help children understand the situation without causing unnecessary worry.

3. Share news in a calm and familiar environment: Create a safe space where children feel secure.

4. Validate emotions: Acknowledge that feeling a mix of emotions in response to upsetting events is normal. Encourage children to express and name their feelings.

5. Be honest with supportive guidance: Provide truthful information appropriate for their age, helping them manage anxiety.

6. Encourage interactive dialogue: Pause often to allow questions and respond thoughtfully. Prepare for potential questions in advance.

Guidelines for Discussing News with Children

• Limit news exposure, but avoid complete concealment. Hiding information can make events seem scarier or more mysterious.

• Highlight positive events: Remind children that despite current tragedies, the world is full of kindness and acts of help.

• Engage them in activities or games: Distract attention from distressing events and create space for normal childhood experiences.

When Anxiety Persists
For some children, exposure to bad news may lead to more serious anxiety, including excessive worry about themselves or their family. In such cases, seeking guidance from a qualified child psychologist is recommended.