How much should we talk with children about the world’s problems? That is something parents and educators been questioning themselves. Yes, we want to prepare them for what they may face, but we don’t to terrify them. Discussing the issues the world is facing with children is really important because this way we raise a generation that is aware and willing to change the world towards better.
Children are exposed to world issues by the media. Neglecting to discuss world issues with them can send the wrong message- that it is not acceptable to talk about difficult things. Let’s not forget that silence can also carry a message.
Yes, we have our fears about discussing world issues with children, but it is important to recognize that they can actually have these difficult conversations and often want to. It doesn’t have to be fear-inciting. While we, as adults should always seek to be honest, we can speak with a sense of hope. If adults discuss world issues with a sense of hope, it can inspire children and young people to make a difference. This can be made by focusing on solutions and the power an individual has to create change.
Most of the children approach these issues with a curious and open mind. They want to not only know what is happening, but why. They also have a natural desire to fix disparities and have a strong sense of fairness and justice.
Many children have a natural desire to help others. Having open dialogues about world issues teaches them about advocacy and standing up for what they believe in. Discussing world issues with children is impactful because as they become adults, they will be more likely to be inspired to take action against the disparities they see globally and will be more open-minded and empathetic about the plights of others. Having a compassionate, well-informed and aware generation of people who care about helping others is crucial to solving the issues in the world today.
The National Association for the Education of Young Children provides guidelines for discussing world issues with children:
 When discussing a distressing issue, the adult should be a safe and reassuring presence during the conversation
 Find out what the child is feeling about the situation and what their thoughts are about it
 Honestly state the facts of the matter and clear up any misinformation in an age-appropriate manner
 Check back in with the child to find out feeling and thoughts on the information expressed
 Discuss values and actions that would be considered hurtful, helpful, fair or unfair
 End the conversation off in a positive manner by reassuring the child that people are taking action to resolve the issue
 Empower children by brainstorming ideas together on how to positively contribute to resolving the issue in an age-appropriate way.
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With files from the Borgen Magazine.
Original article find here → https://www.borgenmagazine.com/discussing-world-issues-with-children/

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