Talking to children and young people about the war in Ukraine

As adults we are often shocked by the horrific and repeated images in the media, children are also exposed to these images, either directly or sublimely, and open and honest conversations can promote understanding and decrease children’s anxiety.

Advice for adults talking to children

How to talk to children about war – tips from a psychologist and counsellor.

• https://www.savethechildren.org.uk/blogs/2022/how-to-talk-to-children-about-war

News videos to watch and discuss safely with children.

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround#more-stories-2

Advice if you are feeling upset or worried by the news.

• https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/13865002

Young Minds – Tips for talking to young people about the conflict in Ukraine and difficult news stories.

• https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/blog/top-tips-for-talking-to-your-young-person-about-the-events-in-ukraine/

A blog, detailing ways to support children when having conversations about conflict and war.

https://edpsy.org.uk/blog/2022/talking-to-children-and-young-people-about-war-in-ukraine

Department for Education – help and advice for families to talk about the conflict in Ukraine.

• https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2022/02/25/help-for-teachers-and-families-to-talk-to-pupils-about-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-and-how-to-help-them-avoid-misinformation/

Providing support to refugees – registering an interest with TWBC.

• https://tunbridgewells.gov.uk/news/ukraine