A message from our editorial director
The news this week on the escalating conflict between Hamas and Israel has been very difficult to see, hear and read about. We have reported on it in this week’s issue, so I want to take the opportunity to reassure you that the editorial team have taken great care to explain events carefully and accurately whilst sparing our young readers from details they could find distressing.
We know that many children have questions about what's happening so, to help you prepare for those sensitive conversations, we’re offering a preview of our report and a resource we’re providing for readers in the same issue, to help them handle the feelings they have in response to news like this.
Here’s a link to the report in our previous issue
Here's a link to the big news report in our current issue
Here's a link to the UK response in our current issue
Here’s a link to the resource written for children
We’ve also put together some tips to help you talk to them – I hope they are useful.
Acknowledge how they’re feeling
It's important to acknowledge your child’s feelings and give them the time and space to express them. Feeling angry, sad and worried is normal, and letting children talk about their response to these events will help them to process their emotions. You can tell them that you feel sad too and so do a lot of other people, so they are not alone. If a child finds it difficult to explain how they’re feeling then you could suggest writing or drawing instead. If they feel angry, taking some exercise can help.
Don’t avoid difficult questions
Don’t be tempted to change the subject. If you avoid answering children’s questions there’s a risk they’ll seek the information they need online, which could expose them to graphic reports and images as well as disinformation. Address their questions honestly and sensitively. Reassure them you will do your best to explain what they need to know. If there is a question you do not know the answer to, it’s ok. You can explain that it’s a complex situation and there aren’t easy answers, but many people are working to find solutions and end the conflict.
Focus on the helpers
There are many charities, organisations and individuals working in the region to help victims. If your child wishes to do something to help, they could consider donating pocket money or fundraising for charities such as the Red Cross and Save the Children who are providing support to people in both territories.
Remind them to be kind
Many families – perhaps including your own – will have relatives and friends, or belong to communities, who are directly affected by events in the Middle East. The conflict has a long and complex history and there are strong emotions on all sides. Remind children to be kind and respectful to others and not repeat anything that could be hurtful or upsetting.
I hope you find this information helpful. We’ve written some tips for children too. You can read them together here.
With best wishes,
Anna Bassi
Editorial director, The Week Junior
