In the age of constant media exposure, it’s impossible to completely shield our kids from the 24-hour news cycle, which bombard us on a daily basis on TV, radio and the internet. But the latest reports and imagery covering shootings, arrests, detentions, and war are more disturbing than usual — and it’s impacting families nationwide.
A 2025 report from the University of California Riverside found that children who feel their families are in danger are showing signs of increased depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress. Additionally, 75 percent of adolescents report feeling stressed about mass shootings and the potential of them occurring, according to the American Psychological Association.
Even if your kids aren’t exposed to these unsettling stories at home, there’s a good chance they are hearing about it at school. It can be tempting to quickly change the channel (or close the computer) and brush off or ignore questions about current events, but it’s critical to talk to your kids about what they are seeing and hearing. Not only can the news upset kids, but ignoring their questions can make those feelings more intense. Here’s how to talk to your kids about the news.
Limit kids’ exposure to the news
Yes, you can’t filter what kids hear at school or see in public places. But you can minimize their exposure to media by using parental controls on internet-enabled devices. Also consider limiting screen time and the type of content they consume; the less time kids spend with media, the less likely they are to come across information they’re too young to understand and process.
Watch your own reactions
Younger children aren’t able to put into perspective what they watch or hear. Instead, they look to you and your response to gauge whether what’s happening is good or bad. Your reactions as a parent influence children more than anyone else. You might also want to avoid listening or watching the news near your child, in case images or phrases are disturbing.
Determine what they know
As much as we try to protect younger children from hearing about the terrible things that are happening in the world, they likely know more than we think. It’s not uncommon for kids, particularly if they are in school, to hear about current events, if not firsthand, then from their peers or even older kids. Talk with them and ask what they know. If your child comes to you having seen images of or heard about a horrific event, it’s important to understand what they have been told or think happened. Then listen carefully to what they have to say.
Practice patience
Don’t be surprised if your kids ask the same questions multiple times. That’s normal and expected as they process difficult topics. Take a deep breath and show them they can trust you by answering their questions as many times as they ask.
Tell them the truth
Understanding what a child knows about a news event can help you clear up any misconceptions or misinformation. While you shouldn’t lie about an upsetting story, your explanations should be age appropriate. In other words, you don’t have to tell them the whole truth or provide unnecessary details. Simplifying the information can help kids process what they saw or heard.
Ask how it makes them feel
Hearing about natural disasters, mass shootings and other horrific events happening around the world can be devastating to kids, even older ones. They may feel sad or confused or fear for their family, their community and their school. It’s normal to have these feelings. Let them talk about their fears and reassure them they are safe. Check in with them about their feelings over the next few days or weeks, particularly if the news event is ongoing.
Explain the broader context
Often news is presented in the form of sound bites and clickbait headlines with accompanying photos or videos that omit information about the broader context of a story. Use these opportunities to talk about larger issues in our world. You’ll want to continue to make sure you’re sharing information that’s age appropriate, but even with younger children, discussing current events can help you explain how the government works and how large and diverse our world is. Use these teachable moments to help them gain empathy for others and have a broader worldview.
Allow them to express themselves through creativity or play
Children often work through their thoughts and anxieties by recreating images they’ve seen, through play or artwork. This can give you a better understanding of what they might be experiencing. It’s normal and healthy to use the outlets, even if they play the same scenes over and over.
Discuss how to manage anger
When children see adults getting angry or acting violent on TV or online, talk with them about how they can express their emotions. Remind them it is never okay to respond with violence.
Help them make a difference
Stories about natural disasters are upsetting to kids who see other children losing their homes, neighborhoods, schools and more. But there is one way to turn these frightening images into something positive: Teach your child the value of giving. Taking action by helping others can help alleviate your child’s intense feelings of fear and sadness. Give your kids the opportunity to do something positive in the face of negative news stories.
Give your child extra comfort
Find time for extra hugs or snuggling up together with a favorite book. Physical comfort helps provide inner security and the closeness will support both of you.
Take care of yourself
During times of stress, it’s critical to pay attention to self care. When you need extra support, talk to friends and relatives. Be sure to prioritize healthy eating, hydration, exercise and sleep. To lower stress, try deep breathing, and if you struggle with anxiety, reach out to your doctor or mental health professional. The best way to help your child is to help yourself.
