Helping Kids Cope with War in the Media Age

Calm, honest conversations can reduce fear and strengthen resilience in children exposed to global conflicts.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 5:39am

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As children are increasingly exposed to news of war and violence through constant media coverage, experts recommend that parents and caregivers have open, age-appropriate discussions to help kids process their fears and build resilience. The article outlines strategies for supporting children of different developmental stages, limiting disturbing media exposure, and highlighting examples of peace and kindness to empower kids.

Why it matters

With the prevalence of 24/7 news coverage and social media, children today have unprecedented access to information about global conflicts and acts of violence. This can lead to heightened anxiety, misconceptions, and a sense of personal danger, even when the fighting is geographically distant. By guiding kids through these issues in a measured way, adults can help mitigate the psychological toll and foster resilience.

The details

The article explains that young children tend to interpret news of war and violence in very concrete, personal terms, often assuming their own neighborhood is at risk. Older kids and teens may develop strong opinions and emotional responses, but still need support regulating their reactions. Experts recommend that parents and caregivers: 1) have open, age-appropriate discussions to understand what kids have heard and correct any misconceptions; 2) limit children's exposure to disturbing media coverage; 3) encourage kids to express their feelings; and 4) share examples of diplomatic efforts, humanitarian aid, and acts of kindness to provide a sense of hope and empowerment.

  • The current conflict in Iran has once again filled headlines with images of missile strikes, political retaliation, and warnings of wider regional war.

The players

Pfefferbaum et al.

Researchers who found that children who watched more news coverage after the September 11 attacks, especially those far from the attacks, reported higher levels of post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Slone & Shoshani

Researchers who found that children exposed to ongoing political conflict often show strong emotional responses such as fear and anger, along with increased curiosity about causes and consequences.

Masten & Narayan

Researchers who found that parental calmness and availability are the two strongest protective factors for children dealing with collective trauma.

Comer et al.

Researchers who found that repeated exposure to graphic news has been linked to increased levels of anxiety and depression in teens.

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What they’re saying

“After the September 11 attacks, children who watched more news coverage, especially those far from the attacks, reported higher levels of post-traumatic stress symptoms.”

— Pfefferbaum et al.

“Children exposed to ongoing political conflict often show strong emotional responses such as fear and anger, along with increased curiosity about causes and consequences.”

— Slone & Shoshani

“Parental calmness and availability are the two strongest protective factors for children dealing with collective trauma.”

— Masten & Narayan

“Repeated exposure to graphic news has been linked to increased levels of anxiety and depression in teens.”

— Comer et al.

The takeaway

In an era of constant media exposure to global conflicts and violence, parents and caregivers play a crucial role in helping children process their fears, build resilience, and maintain a sense of safety and hope. By having open, age-appropriate discussions, limiting disturbing media coverage, and highlighting examples of peace and kindness, adults can support children's healthy development and emotional well-being.