When the News Feels Scary: How to Support Your Child or Teen
Lately, it feels like every time we turn on the news or scroll through social media, there’s something upsetting—talk of war, violence, or things happening far away that suddenly feel close to home.
If your child or teen has been asking tough questions or sharing fears about what’s happening in the world, you’re not alone. As a parent and a therapist, I know how hard these conversations can be. You want to be honest, but not overwhelm them. You want to ease their fears, but not brush them off.
So how do we help our kids when the world feels scary? Here are a few simple tips that can make a big difference:
1. Create a Safe Space to Talk
First and foremost, let your child know it’s okay to talk about their worries. Whether they’ve seen something online, heard a conversation at school, or are just feeling uneasy, give them space to share their thoughts and feelings. You don’t have to have all the answers — just being there to listen is powerful.
2. Validate Their Feelings
It can be tempting to say, “You don’t need to worry about that.” But that can accidentally make them feel dismissed. Instead, try saying, “I understand why that feels scary. A lot of people feel that way when they hear things like this.”
Let them know their feelings are normal — and that they aren’t alone.
3. Offer Honest, Age-Appropriate Reassurance
For younger kids, keep it simple and focus on safety:
"There are adults working hard to keep people safe. It’s my job to keep you safe, and I’m always here for you."
For teens, be a little more direct but realistic:
"There are tough things happening, but right now, you’re safe. It’s okay to feel worried, but I’ll always be here to help you through it."
It’s important not to promise things we can’t control, but reminding them of the safety and stability around them can be very reassuring.
4. Help Them Navigate the News
Older kids and teens are likely hearing a lot from social media, friends, or YouTube — and not all of it is accurate. Talk to them about finding trustworthy sources and being cautious about what they believe online.
For younger kids, it’s okay to limit their exposure. Keep conversations broad and age-appropriate, and avoid graphic details that could overwhelm them.
5. Model Calm (Even When You’re Worried Too)
Kids notice more than we think, especially our tone, body language, and reactions. If you feel anxious, that’s okay, but try to show them how you manage those feelings. Taking a breath, pausing before reacting, and using a calm voice can help them feel more secure.
It’s also okay to tell them, “I feel worried sometimes too, but I try to take care of myself when I feel that way.”
6. Teach Grounding and Coping Tools
When the world feels uncertain, small things can help kids (and adults) feel more grounded. You might suggest:
Taking a walk together
Drawing, painting, or journaling
Listening to music
Snuggling under a cozy blanket with a book or movie
Practicing deep breathing
Help your child notice what helps them feel calm and safe, and remind them that they can always use those tools.
7. Encourage Hopeful Action (for Older Kids and Teens)
Some kids feel better when they can do something. You might encourage them to:
Write a letter to a leader or community group
Learn more about a cause they care about
Volunteer or help a friend
Simply talk with you about ways people work for peace and positive change
Even small actions can help ease that feeling of helplessness.
8. Limit the News (For Them — and For You)
It’s okay to take breaks from the news. Constant updates can raise anxiety for both kids and parents. Turning off the TV, putting down the phone, and focusing on family time or something fun is not ignoring the world; it’s protecting your peace.
Final Thoughts
The world can feel overwhelming—for our kids and for us. But through honest conversations, simple coping tools, and your calm, supportive presence, you can help your child feel more secure, even when things feel uncertain.
You don’t have to have all the answers; just showing up, listening, and reminding them they aren’t alone makes all the difference.
How do you know when your child’s worries might be more than just everyday anxiety?
It’s normal for kids and teens to feel uneasy when they hear scary things in the news. But if you notice your child is having trouble sleeping, struggling to focus, or finding it hard to handle everyday activities, it might be a sign they need a little extra support. Counseling can give kids the tools to challenge their worried thoughts, build confidence, and learn healthy ways to cope when life feels overwhelming.
If your child or teen could use some extra support, our team at Reach Counseling is here to help. We specialize in working with children, teens, and families, and we’d love to support yours. Feel free to reach out anytime.
For more resources on helping your child or teen with anxiety, check out these blog posts: How To Help Your Teen With Anxiety and Helping Your Anxious Child.
