Hot Topics     Healthy Kids    

Children are watching war on social media



Tips to help you explain what is happening

How you can explain the war your kids are seeing in the media


On October 7th,  Hamas launched a deadly attack against Israel killing over 1,000 Israeli and Palestinians, some of whom were children. Graphic images of war and its casualties have spread across social media and TV. Especially on social media, the images are very graphic, explicit and disturbing. Children have likely seen modern day images of war from the Russian Ukraine war which began in 2022. 

As children are back in school and aware of what is going in the world around them, mental health experts like NYC Neuropsychologist Dr. Sanam Hafeez believe it is imperative for parents to communicate with their children starting at whatever age they are cognizant enough to know that war is being waged in Israel. How do you have these discussions and what is age appropriate?

Dr. Sanam Hafeez of Comprehend the Mind provides a guide for parents

Consider their age and maturity:

Tailor your conversation to the child's age and level of understanding. Younger children may need simpler explanations, while older children can handle more complex discussions.

Find an appropriate time and place:

Choose a quiet and comfortable setting where you can have a focused conversation without distractions.

Listen first:

Ask your child what they know or have heard about war. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. This will help you understand their perspective and address their specific concerns.

Use simple and honest language:

Explain the concept of war in simple terms, using age-appropriate language. Be honest but avoid graphic details or unnecessary information that might be distressing.

Be calm and reassuring:

Children may feel scared or anxious about the idea of war. Reassure them that they are safe and that you will do everything you can to protect them.

Provide historical context:

If the child is older, you can give them some historical context about past wars and conflicts. Explain that wars have occurred throughout history but also emphasize that there are efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts peacefully.

Emphasize empathy and tolerance:

Teach your child about the importance of empathy, understanding, and tolerance. Explain that wars often result from misunderstandings and differences between people and that it's essential to promote peace and unity.

Address questions and concerns:

Encourage your child to ask questions and express their concerns. Answer their questions honestly, but avoid speculating about the future or making unrealistic promises.

Limit exposure to disturbing media:

In today's digital age, children may come across distressing images or news about war on television, social media, or the internet. Monitor their media consumption and ensure they are exposed to age-appropriate content.

READ MORE: Answering our kid’s questions about violence in the world

Offer coping strategies:

Teach children healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises, drawing, writing, or talking to a trusted adult.

Reiterate your love and support:

Remind your child that you love them and will always be there to support and protect them. Emphasize the importance of family and community in times of uncertainty.

Encourage positive actions:

Inspire your child to take positive actions, such as volunteering, supporting charities, or learning about conflict resolution, to make the world a better place.

Teach About Misinformation

Parents should also inform children about misinformation, which is certainly everywhere in war and on social media. Explain to your child the meaning of 'gossip' and how people or entities benefit from it. Cite examples that might occur in your child’s school regarding how 'fake news' might be spread about a student, a sports team or a teacher. 

Depending on the age of the child, parents can explain the meaning of “clickbait” and how to recognize it. Parents should also ask their kids where they typically go for information. Explain to them that some websites are purposely satirical, and why that satire exists. Project Look Sharp," a non-profit dedicated to media literacy, has devised questions to help older kids evaluate online information.

Show me what's scary'

Ask your child to show you images or videos that he or she deems scary online or on social media, Ask them what elements they find scary. If the child perceives these videos or photos as scary, ask why they are drawn to them in the first place. Kids may not know they can "hide" material on social media that they find offensive or upsetting. As their parent, show them how this can be done so they can have a less triggering social media experience.

Dr. Sanam Hafeez is a New York City based Neuropsychologist and School Psychologist.  She is also the founder and director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C.  She is currently a teaching faculty member at Columbia University. 



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • Choose to move

    5 ways to help manage osteoarthritis

    Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and affects over 32.5 million U.S. adults. OA is a degenerative joint disease that causes pain and stiffness and can lead to limited function. read more »
  • Make these 10 doctor-recommended health resolutions in the new year

    Tips to help you get started

    The New Year is the perfect time to hit the reset button on your health and wellness. Not sure where to start? Doctors say you can make the biggest impact with small, incremental tweaks to your routine. read more »
  • Serve plant-based sweets this holiday season

    Try these dairy free salted caramel cupcakes

    Make this year’s festivities truly memorable by adding a touch of sweetness to holiday celebrations with this delightful combination of fluffy cupcakes, creamy frosting and a heavenly caramel drizzle. read more »
  • A full menu of festive holiday flavor

    From the main dish to dessert

    Cooking up a successful holiday gathering calls for everyone’s favorite recipes. From the centerpiece main dish to fresh salads and appetizers, roasted sides, and baked sweets, you can take seasonal get-togethers up a notch by mixing traditional classics with newfound favorites. read more »
  • Charity scam prevention tips

    How you can tell the difference

    The charitable spirit of New Yorkers is at an all-time high during the holiday season, so this week’s tips are meant to serve as a guide when choosing causes to donate to so donations get to the right place and not in the hands of scammers. read more »
  • A delicious way to support your immune system

    2 recipes your family is going to love

    Bolstering your immune system during winter, when coughs and colds seem to take control, is a must for the entire family. Supporting your wellness can start in a simple place – with the foods you eat and drink. read more »
  • Prevent package thefts during the holiday season

    Tips from the Department of State's Consumer Protection Division

    Tips on how you can protect yourself from thieves that are trying to steal both your holiday packages and your identity. read more »
  • Want to achieve your goals? Write them down

    Meet the newest winner of the G2 Overachievers Grant

    If you have a big idea, goal or dream about helping others, writing down your vision can help. Studies show you’re 42% more likely to achieve your goals if you write them down. read more »
  • 5 things we learned about Alzheimer’s Disease in 2023

    It was a landmark year for research

    2023 was a landmark year for Alzheimer’s disease research, including advancements in treatment, risk factors and diagnosis. Here are five significant discoveries made this year. read more »
  • Winter comfort hacks for contact lens wearers

    One in five contact lens wearers find lenses to be less comfortable by the end of the day. If that describes you, you may already know that cold air, wind, and indoor heating, especially during winter, can bring additional challenges. read more »