Talking to kids about terrorism and war

by David Walsh, Ph.D.

In the wake of recent terrorist attacks and their aftermath, Dr. David Walsh of the National Institute on Media and the Family, has helped parents, teachers, and children nationwide to cope. A special program entitled "Helping Kids Cope with Terrorism" aired on many of the nation’s PBS stations in the weeks after September 11, 2001. the program featured real parents discussing the new challenges they face, and Dr. Walsh’s advice on how to help children and parents cope with new versions of normality. In addition to his work as a co-host for the KTCA-produced special, he has developed a list of tips and age-specific information and coping suggestions for anyone who feels affected by the attacks and their aftermath. This information is posted on the Media and Family web site www.mediafamily.org.

The web site explains that the terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, did more than shake our nation to its core. It undermined our sense of security and set us on a perilous journey into uncharted territory. All of us, including our children, are dealing with grief, sadness, tension, anxiety, fear, anger and other strong emotions.

Economic uncertainty only adds to our stress. As we try to return to normal, our emotional reactions will continue to evolve. Future events are likely to bring more emotional stress. Therefore, it is important that we develop long-term strategies to help ourselves and our children cope.

Walsh’s tips include information about things to expect: returning to normal; intense emotions; stress and anxiety, relationships, education, and health. There is a list of age appropriate information for parents; preschoolers, elementary, middle, and high school students.

David Walsh, Ph.D. is a psychologist and the president of the National Institute on Media and the Family in Minneapolis. He is also a frequent guest on national radio and television. For more information call 888-672-5437 (672-KIDS).