Talking to Your Children About the Middle East Conflict
A Conversation with the Groza Learning Center
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.
What We Covered
Age-appropriate conversations
We explored how to tailor your language and explanations based on your child’s developmental stage—young children benefit from simple, concrete explanations, while older kids can handle more complex contexts.Validating emotional experiences
I emphasized the importance of listening first, acknowledging fears, and letting children know it’s okay to have big feelings—even if you can’t fix everything immediately.Modeling calm, grounded responses
The conversation focused on the fact that children learn emotional regulation by watching their parents. Staying composed provides a sense of stability and reassurance.Answering difficult questions honestly
We discussed how honesty builds trust. It's okay to say “I don’t know” and then offer to find answers together, which helps create an environment of shared inquiry and security.Coping strategies and optimism together
The webinar included concrete tools—like using art, journaling, or family discussions—to process feelings. We also underscored the power of hope and focusing on constructive actions, such as community engagement or acts of kindness.
Watch the Full Talk
Below is a link to the full video. Feel free to watch it in full—follow along with the summary above, or explore topics at your own pace.
