The war in Ukraine has brought about a new challenge for children and parents alike. Many questions need answering, and this is not always possible without creating more fears in light of events. At the same time, parents need to be aware not to downplay the conflict too much, concluded ombudsman Charel Schmit in conversation with RTL Radio.
It is also important for parents to acknowledge when they are not educated enough on a certain issue and then try to find an explanation together with their children. In any case, people should follow the situation with a reasonable amount of attention. Parents should not spend all their time stuck on their phones watching footage of the conflict. This can be problematic for children and parents alike, warned Schmit.
The ombudsman further advised that children below the age of nine should best not be exposed to adult news at all. In case they still observe disturbing images on television or on the Internet, then those have to be put into context by parents.
Schmit underlined that children often respond better to creative activities than theoretical explanations when it comes to channelling their fears and hopes. He further advocated a focus on positive aspects of current events, such as the ways to support refugees at the moment.
Children also tend to react strongly to the suffering of other children when exposed to conflict footage, leading them to question whether similar events can also happen to them. Here, perspective is needed, emphasised Schmit, as children have different concepts of how imminent danger really is.
The ombudsman expressed great satisfaction over the fact that the administrative process for taking in refugees escaping the war has been simplified. However, he also drew attention to the potential for conflicts resulting from this acceptance, and emphasised that great care is needed to adequately handle this situation. Schmit concluded the interview by saying that every refugee child should receive the same attention and care, regardless of where they come from.
Children and Youths Helpline: 116111
Parents’ Helpline: 26 64 05 55
Website of the Ombudsman for Children and Youths: http://okaju.lu
Last week, the National Youth Service (SNJ) also published a letter (LUX/FR/GER) with pieces of advice on how to talk to children about the war in Ukraine.
