Empowering Kids: Mental Health Tips for Navigating Scary News Stories

When scary news stories appear on TV or online, kids can feel overwhelmed and anxious. You might notice your child asking tough questions or showing signs of worry. Helping them manage these feelings is essential for their mental health. This post offers practical tips to support your child in understanding and coping with frightening news in a way that feels safe and manageable.

1. Create a Safe Space for Conversation

Kids need to know they can talk openly about what they see or hear. Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. Use simple language to explain the news and avoid overwhelming details. For example, if a story involves a natural disaster, you might say, “Some places had a big storm, but many people are helping each other.”

• Ask open-ended questions like, “What did you hear about that story?” or “How does that make you feel?”

• Listen carefully and validate their feelings by saying things like, “It’s okay to feel scared sometimes.”

  
  

This approach builds trust and helps your child feel supported!

2. Limit Exposure to Distressing News

Constant exposure to scary news can increase anxiety. You can help by setting boundaries on when and how your child accesses news.

• Choose age-appropriate news sources or summaries designed for kids.

• Watch or read the news together so you can explain and reassure.

• Turn off news notifications on devices your child uses.

• Avoid watching graphic or violent content in front of your child.

  
  

For example, instead of letting your child watch the evening news alone, you might watch a kid-friendly news program together and discuss it afterward.

3. Teach Coping Skills Through Activities

Helping kids develop coping skills gives them tools to manage fear and stress. Activities can make these skills fun and memorable.

• Practice deep breathing exercises together. Try breathing in slowly for four counts, holding for four, then breathing out for four.

• Use creative outlets like drawing or storytelling to express feelings.

• Encourage physical activity, such as playing outside or doing yoga, to reduce tension.

• Create a “worry box” where your child writes or draws their fears and then “locks” them away.

  
  

These activities help children feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

4. Focus on Positive Actions and Hope

Scary news often highlights problems, but focusing on positive actions can restore hope. Share stories about people helping others or communities coming together.

• Talk about ways your child can help, like donating toys or writing kind notes.

• Highlight examples of kindness and bravery from the news.

• Encourage your child to think about solutions or ways to stay safe.

  
  

For instance, if a news story is about a flood, you might explain how volunteers are helping families rebuild homes. This shifts the focus from fear to hope and action.

5. Maintain Routine and Normalcy

Routine provides a sense of security during uncertain times. Keeping daily schedules consistent helps children feel grounded.

• Stick to regular meal times, bedtimes, and playtimes.

• Plan fun family activities to create positive experiences.

• Ensure your child gets enough sleep and healthy food.

  
  

When kids know what to expect, they feel safer and better able to handle stress.

6. Know When to Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, scary news can cause ongoing anxiety or behavior changes that need extra support. Watch for signs like:

• Persistent nightmares or trouble sleeping

• Withdrawal from friends or activities

• Excessive worry or physical complaints like stomachaches

• Sudden mood changes or irritability

  
  

If you notice these signs, consider talking to a pediatrician or mental health professional. Early support can make a big difference.