When something tragic or frightening happens—whether globally or closer to home—your first thought might be, "What do I do now?" As a parent or guardian, you may feel unsure how to respond or how to support your child emotionally and spiritually.
When the world feels heavy, what do you say to your kids?
The truth is, your kids are likely already picking up on what’s happening through the news, social media, friends, or even overhearing your conversations. Instead of trying to shield them from reality, the best thing you can do is help guide them through it. Here are some practical and faith-filled ways to help your family navigate difficult conversations.
Start by talking to God
Before you start the conversation with your child, bring your own emotions to God. Ask him for wisdom, clarity, and peace. Pray for the right words to say and the grace to listen well. And when you're in the middle of the conversation? Keep praying—he's with you.
Help your child filter the noise
Kids (and adults) are constantly bombarded with voices—from news sources, social media, peers, and more. You can help your child learn how to “turn up” the right voices and “turn down” the ones that aren’t helpful or healthy.
Turn up the volume on:
Honest conversations in age-appropriate language
Use simple words and focus on safety, hope, and empathy. Let them ask questions and respond with patience, even when you don't have all the answers.
Trusted, age-appropriate news sources
For kids and teens, we recommend WORLDkids, WORLDteen, or WORLD watch. For older teens (and adults!), check out 1440 Daily Digest. While this isn't a faith-based news source, it does provide neutral, fact-based updates.
Emotional expression
Let your kids feel what they feel. Don't rush to just "fix it." Sit with them, listen, and affirm that their emotions matter to you and to God.
Looking for the good
Like Mr. Rogers said, "look for the helpers." Make a list of people making a difference in hard situations. This shifts their focus from fear to hope.
Stories of God's faithfulness
Share ways God has shown up in your life or in your family during other difficult moments.
Modeling compassion and trust in God
Your child watches how you respond. When you demonstrate faith and calm in the face of uncertainty, they learn how to do the same.
Reading the Bible together
Choose a Bible Reading Plan focused on God's protection and peace. Check out one of these:
Turn down the volume on:
Endless news exposure
Even adults struggle to process nonstop headlines. Set limits and view content together when possible, especially with younger kids.
"Doomscrolling" as a coping mechanism
Talk about the danger of endlessly scrolling through news and social media. Help your child develop healthy screen habits instead. (And make sure you're modeling healthy screen time yourself!)
Adult conversations that aren't meant for kids
Your kids are watching you, whether you realize it or not. So be mindful of what they might overhear. Avoid politicizing issues or letting your own anxiety spill into their world.
False assurances
Don't pretend to have all the answers. It's okay to say "I don't know." Offer comfort in what you do know: they are safe, loved, and never alone.
Minimizing their emotions
Phrases like "you're overreacting" or "that's not a big deal" can shut them down. Instead, validate their feelings.
Silence
Avoiding the topic altogether can leave room for more fear and confusion to fester. Even a short, honest conversation is better than none at all.
When to involve a counselor or trusted professional
Sometimes, your child may need more support than you can provide alone—and that’s okay. Seek additional help if you notice signs like:
- Changes in sleep or eating habits
- Nightmares or physical symptoms like stomachaches
- Withdrawal, irritability, or flat mood
- Obsession with details of the event
- Reluctance to leave home or increased clinginess
- Sudden disinterest in previously enjoyed activities
If you’re unsure where to turn, we can connect you with trusted counselors and pastors near any of our locations. You’re not in this alone.
Your child is not alone, and neither are you.
Processing hard things as a family isn't easy, but it's possible. And it becomes all the more powerful when you invite God into the conversation.
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To learn more about LCBC’s Student Ministry and how your student in Grades 5-12 can get involved, visit LCBCchurch.com/Students.
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LCBC stands for Lives Changed By Christ. We are one church in multiple locations across Pennsylvania. Find the location closest to you or join us for Church Online. We can’t wait to connect with you!