In the relationship between a parent and a child, it is very important to create a space where open conversations about all topics can take place — including emotions and fears. If a child struggles to express their feelings in words, help them by encouraging other forms of expression such as drawing or play.
To begin with, it is essential that parents acknowledge and accept the child’s fear without minimizing it. For a child, their fear is very real and distressing. By downplaying it, we risk the child withdrawing further, which won’t help resolve the problem behind the fear.
If the child doesn’t initiate a conversation but you notice signs of fear, gently encourage them to talk. Choose a calm moment in the day — a time when you are not in a rush or overwhelmed by the news. For example, you could be watching a movie, reading together, or playing, and use that moment to spontaneously ask how they are feeling. Find out what they have heard that might have upset or frightened them, and what they think about it.
Your child’s questions might stir anxiety in you as well, especially if they seem too big or serious for a child. Questions like “Will we ever see our city and friends again?” or “Will I make any friends here?” are deeply emotional and cannot leave a parent indifferent. Reassure your child, hug them, tell them you understand their concern, and ask what exactly they heard and why they feel that way. Ask follow-up questions and try to get as many details as possible, because the more a child talks, the more their fear and worry are likely to ease. Once they explain what’s frightening or upsetting them, it will be easier for you to comfort them. This also shows them that fears can be soothed and shared.
Try to reassure your child that they are safe.
Ask what you can do to help them feel less scared — for example, leaving the light on at night or staying with them until they fall asleep.
Pay attention to what calms your child and use those methods consistently when fear arises.
Emphasize that they can always come to you with any worries and, from time to time, check how they are feeling. Go for a walk together, encourage physical activity, as it can help reduce anxiety and tension. Offer them a warm drink, lie down with them, hug them, tell a story with a happy ending, and show them that there is hope for a better future.
If the child remains anxious for a long time, cannot be soothed easily, seems depressed, has panic attacks, or feels helpless, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. The same applies to you as a parent — don’t hesitate to seek support.
Fear of war and conflict
When talking to your child, avoid labelling entire nations or peoples. Emphasize that conflicts and crises are caused by individuals, and that most people want peaceful solutions. Try not to encourage prejudice, even when it’s difficult.
Redirect your child’s attention to positive stories — families who welcomed refugees, emergency services helping on the ground, calls for peace and conflict resolution, or happy stories of rebuilding life in a new country.
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