A child’s understanding of war, and why it happens, begins and ends with their parents. But as a parent, knowing the right thing to say is not always easy.
Should we be shielding our children from the endless stream of news bulletins and distressing images coming out of warzones like Gaza or Ukraine? Or should we just explain, as best we can, what is unfolding in these countries?
And how do we cope with the worries children, or teenagers, may have about what they’ve seen or heard in the classroom or on social media?
As part of her parenting series for The Irish Times, columnist Jen Hogan has been investigating how we should talk to our children about difficult subjects like death or separation. And, in light of the horror unfolding in the Middle East, she is now examining how we can help our children process the enormity and brutality of war.
Northern patients at risk due to ‘dramatic deterioration’ in ambulance-ED handovers
Tanker carrying jet fuel for US military set ablaze off coast of England after collision with cargo ship
Blarney Castle owner given permission to challenge drink-driving and dangerous driving convictions
Trinity College Dublin celebrates renaming former Berkeley library after poet Eavan Boland
On today’s podcast, presenter Sorcha Pollak speaks to Jen Hogan about how to approach difficult conversations about war and death with children and teenagers. With input from early childhood and parenting expert Dr Mary O’Kane.
Presented by Sorcha Pollak. Produced by Suzanne Brennan.
