When the news is scary, what do you do?

When the world feels uncertain, young children often sense it before they can name it. They may hear fragments of news headlines, notice shifts in adult tone or routines, or pick up on stress within their communities. Even without fully understanding what’s happening, they feel it, and that feeling can surface as fear, worry, or changes in behavior.
 
As educators and caregivers, we play a vital role in helping children navigate these moments with reassurance, honesty, and care. While we can’t shield children from every difficult reality, we can help them feel safe, supported, and grounded through trust, clear communication, and a shared responsibility to respond thoughtfully to their needs.
 
One of the most powerful things we can offer is emotional presence. Young children don’t need all the details; they need calm adults who listen, validate their feelings, and respond with steady reassurance. Simple language, predictable routines, and familiar activities help anchor children when the world feels unpredictable.
 
It’s also important to remember that children often express fear through behavior rather than words. Clinginess, irritability, withdrawal, or regression can all be signs that a child is feeling overwhelmed. Meeting these moments with patience and empathy rather than correction helps rebuild a sense of safety and trust.
 
Creating space for questions, play, and expression is another essential tool. Drawing, storytelling, dramatic play, and quiet conversations allow children to process what they’re experiencing in developmentally appropriate ways. These moments don’t require perfect answers, just honest, caring responses that let children know their feelings matter.
 
At Gryphon House, we believe that supporting young children during challenging times begins with supporting the adults who care for them. When educators and caregivers feel equipped, grounded, and supported, they are better able to offer the calm, connection, and consistency children need most.
 
Together, we can help young children feel safe not by pretending scary things don’t exist, but by reminding them they are not alone, they are cared for, and they are protected by the relationships that surround them.