In a time of global turbulence, many parents ask: How do we speak with our children about the ongoing conflict in the Middle East? I recently discussed this important topic on a webinar hosted by the Groza Learning Center.

Volunteer or give back: Helping others can increase feelings of gratitude and improve overall mental wellness. Consider volunteering your time or donating to a cause that you care about. This can not only benefit others, but it can also help you feel a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Communicate openly with your child. Children want to be heard and truly listened to. You might not understand everything they are going through, but they will feel the effort from you in trying to understand their experience, and sitting with them in the tough times. When a child approaches their parent with an issue, it’s important for parents to listen without getting defensive. This is important at any age, not just teenagers and older children. This is vital even with toddlers and very young children who may not have fully developed language skills. If a child is expressing their emotions through behaviors like tantrums, it’s important for parents to identify and acknowledge those feelings.