How to Talk to Children About Difficult Topics? Parenting Series Part-2!
Despite the best efforts of parents and teachers to keep the "bad stuff" out of their children's lives, they are permanently affected by depression. Instead of protecting children, adults need to talk to them about the dangers, violence, and tragedies around them.
While communication may not seem easy, taking the initiative and using age-appropriate language to talk about traumatic experiences can help a child feel safe and secure
Although adults try to stay away from touchy subjects, children often witness or witness traumatic or frightening events. If adults avoid talking to them about it, a young person may exaggerate the problem or misinterpret the adults’ silence. So, start a conversation about the hard topic first.
Parents who have unpleasant conversations with their children show that they are there and supportive. So, let’s get into this part of parenting today!
Why is it important to talk to children about difficult issues?-
In our work with families, we face many difficult situations. When a child starts talking about something that happened at home, you may be surprised. Alternatively, you can witness and listen as children explore the simple story through play.
Birth, death, divorce, loss, illness, violence, substance abuse, and domestic abuse will inevitably come up in early childhood programs and though we often feel uncomfortable when dealing with these topics, however, some strategies can help us feel more proficient in responding
If you avoid talking to your children about difficult issues, they may grow up with negative thoughts or unfulfilled anxieties. Because you are your children’s initial source of support, you want them to feel comfortable coming to you for advice and comfort when things get tough.
It’s important to start open conversations with your child at an early age about their feelings and concerns in order to create an environment where they feel comfortable talking about them.
Creating this space for honest discussion of difficult topics helps the young brain develop deeper understanding, independent thinking, and creative solution strategies.
Direct the Conversation with this Guide-
- Think about what you want to say
Practice in your head, in the mirror, or with another adult. Some advanced policies can facilitate the discussion. You won’t have to think off the top of your head.
- Find time to be quiet
This may be after dinner or during lunch the next day. This is the time and place where your children can be your main focus.
- Find out what they know
For example, there has been a school shooting or a bomb attack in another country. Ask them, “What did you hear about this?”. And then listen. hear. hear. And listen to more stories.
- Share your feelings with your child
It’s okay to acknowledge your feelings with your kids. They see you as a person. They also give you a chance to pull back and move on, even when you’re upset. Parents often feel that it is a good example. This also applies to emotions.
- Tell me the truth
Put the facts where they can understand them. You do not need to provide image information.
For young children, you may need to talk about what death is (they no longer feel anything, not hunger, thirst, fear, or pain; we may never see them again, but we can keep their memories in our hearts and minds).
Say, “I don’t know. Sometimes the answer to the question is “I don’t know”. “Why did the bad guys do this?” he asked. he asked. “I don’t know” is appropriate.
- Above all, give reassurance
Once the conversation is over, reassure your children that you will do everything you can to keep them comfortable and safe. Reassure them that you will be available to answer any questions or discuss this topic again in the future. Reassure them that they are loved.
To The Bottom Line-
It’s inevitable. Every parent has to have a tough talk with their child at some point. These conversations can range from the infamously awkward sex education talk (remember when you learned about the birds and the bees?) to subjects like loss, grieving, and safety in today's society. When you can't guarantee that "everything will be OK," what do you say instead? While there are no secret phrases, the following advice can help you navigate those challenging talks.
