It’s stressful enough for caregivers to figure out how—or whether—to talk to kids about local or national disasters. When your child is already grieving, it can feel even more overwhelming to know what to say. Below are answers to the most common questions we receive, and we hope this list of strategies will be supportive. Use what works for your family and trust your values and instincts to guide the rest.
Should I tell my grieving child about the disaster in the news?
Most likely, yes. Children who are grieving often feel left out or alone when something major occurs. Not talking about these major events can add to this isolation. Sharing unsettling news shows them scary things can be discussed and that their feelings matter.
If yes, what should I say?
- Start simple: “I know you’re already carrying a lot. I want to talk about what’s happening with [news event here] not to make things worse, but because I’m here with you.”
- Ask a soft question: “Do you want me to share some of what I’m hearing about this?”
- Be open to listening fully, even if their reactions feel intense. You don’t need perfect words—just presence.
What if I’m grieving too and can’t talk about it?
You don’t have to lead if you can’t—and your child will still feel your care. You can say something like:
“I’m carrying my own stuff right now, but I don’t want you to navigate this alone. Can we ask [trusted relative, counselor, teacher] to sit with us?” You might also speak with a grief counselor or support group for a check-in so you don’t have to do it alone.
What if this event activates my child?
That’s not failure. It’s grief reacting to overwhelm. Offer extra comfort and predictability:
- Let them cancel a social or school activity if they need a break.
- Hold more frequent small check-ins—“Just breathing together” kind of moments.
What if this event amplifies fear that the world isn’t safe?
Validation matters: “It’s okay to feel scared or afraid. Your feelings are valid.” Then help them find constancy where they can:
- Read a calming book together.
- Revisit a memory of a person they trusted and helped make them feel safe.
- Ask, “Where do you still feel safe right now?” and lean into that.
- Create a plan on how they can contact you when feeling unsafe and who will be there to support them (ie school lockdown, natural disaster, etc.)
How can I call in emotional support?
You don’t have to be the only person helping your child through this emotional terrain. Lean on:
- Aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc. who can answer tough questions or offer distraction.
- A teacher, coach, or grief-educated mentor who knows how to just listen.
- Peer grief groups or youth counselors. Letting others help doesn’t mean you’re giving up—it means you’re giving your child support together.
When the news shakes us, it’s not a step backward to feel it again. It’s a natural response to loss resurfacing. Being there for your child and for yourself —whether in words, silence, or simply sharing breaths—is what matters most.
Samira Moosavi is a Clinical Manager at Experience Camps who has dedicated over a decade to providing psychosocial support to children and families. As a Certified Child Life Specialist, she has supported youth in the hospital setting, during natural disasters, on global medical missions, in schools and in the community. She is deeply passionate about creating safe spaces for children and families to share about grief.
