3. Offer Support
As the days continue and the devastation in Ukraine grows, your child will most likely be hearing and seeing more things pertaining to this invasion.
Often, it is hard for a child to articulate their feelings when it comes to something as big as this. It is hard to make sense of it all as an adult, so imagine how a child must feel with their main emotional processing point of the brain still developing.
Even if you have had one or two conversations about what is going on, don’t assume that your child doesn’t need more support. Let you child know that you are available if any questions come up or if they are just feeling like they need some extra cuddle/hang time.
Additionally, you don’t have to wait for your child to come to you. Offer extra hugs, be available for when questions arise and talk to you children about what you can do as a family to help (which, leads me to my last tool).
4. Donate When Possible
In times of need and crisis, children feel good when they can help. Instead of just watching things unfold, brainstorm ways that your family can help support the people caught in the chaos of war.
Part of our families tradition around weekly allowance is that the allowance is divided into three jars: Spend, Save and Share. My children are looking forward to giving their “share” money to an organization that is offering help.
Additionally, my children started a candle business this year where they donate 20% of their profits to children and animals in need. We are already researching ways to donate their profits to an organization.
If your child doesn’t already have a way to donate, perhaps a fundraiser can be organized at their school? Or what about setting up a lemonade stand? Be creative as your child looks for ways that they can contribute.
Not only will you be helping people and children of this war, but your child will be feeling less powerless (along with learning about the beauty of giving).
