James Donaldson on Mental Health – Talking to Children about Global Conflicts

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In today’s interconnected world, children are often exposed to news and information about global conflicts. Whether it’s through social media, television, or conversations with friends and family, it’s important for parents and caregivers to provide age-appropriate information and guidance to help children understand and navigate these complex issues.

1. Start with Open and Honest Communication:

When it comes to global conflicts, it’s crucial to create a safe and open environment for children to ask questions and express their feelings. Begin by initiating a conversation and asking what they already know or have heard about the conflict. This can help you understand their level of understanding and correct any misconceptions they may have.

2. Tailor the Information to Their Age:

Children of different ages have varying levels of maturity and understanding. It’s important to provide information that is suitable for their age. For younger children, focusing on basic concepts like fairness, kindness, and the importance of peace can be helpful. Older children and teenagers can handle more complex information, so it’s essential to provide them with accurate and balanced perspectives.

3. Put Conflicts into Context:

Help children understand global conflicts by providing historical and cultural context. Explain how conflicts arise, the different parties involved, and the reasons behind them. Use age-appropriate language and examples relevant to their lives to make it more relatable.

4. Encourage Critical Thinking and Empathy:

Global conflicts often involve multiple perspectives and complex issues. Encourage children to think critically and consider different viewpoints. Help them develop empathy by discussing the impact conflicts have on individuals and communities. Encourage them to think about peaceful solutions and ways they can contribute to a more peaceful world.

5. Provide Reassurance and Emotional Support:

Children can feel anxious, scared, or confused when they hear about global conflicts. Reassure them that they are safe and explain the measures in place to ensure their security. Let them know that it’s natural to feel a range of emotions and provide a space for them to express their concerns or fears.

Remember that discussing global conflicts with children is an ongoing process. It’s important to engage with them regularly, listen to their thoughts and concerns, and be prepared to answer their questions as events unfold. By fostering open communication and providing age-appropriate information, we can help children develop a better understanding of global conflicts and promote a more peaceful future.

Image prompt: An image of a parent and child engaged in a conversation about global conflicts, with a world map or globe in the background.

Tags: children, global conflicts, open communication, age-appropriate, context, critical thinking, empathy, reassurance, emotional support, parenting, guidance

#James Donaldson notes:
Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.
Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.
Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.
  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticle
Find out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundation
website www.yourgiftoflife.org Order your copy of James Donaldson’s latest book,
#CelebratingYourGiftofLife: From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

Link for 40 Habits Signup
bit.ly/40HabitsofMentalHealth

Book
www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com
soldier holding rifle
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
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