How to Talk to Children About 9/11

The tragic events of 9/11 can be difficult for Americans of any age to discuss. As a parent, you may be worried about how you can best talk to your children about 9/11 without causing them unnecessary stress or fear. Thankfully, there are many ways you can talk to your children about 9/11 so that they understand what happened on this infamous day.

Answer your children’s questions with facts. You can learn valuable facts about 9/11 at the 9/11 Memorial website. Be sure to emphasize facts when talking to your children. Knowing the facts behind the attack will help your children to better understand.

Don’t be afraid to address difficult issues. It can be scary to address difficult issues with your children, but it’s important that you don’t avoid such issues. Talk frankly and openly. Express your feelings in a constructive manner.

Explain to your children how the victim’s families have been helped by attorneys and the court system. Your children will be better equipped to cope with the tragedy of 9/11 if they know that many attorneys and courts acted as advocates on the behalf of the families of victims. Explain that many children of victims have received scholarships so that they can attend college.

Listen to your children and respond to their concerns. Listen carefully to what your children have to say. Pay attention to any clues they give you regarding their emotions. Be sure to respond fully to any concerns that your children express.

Tell your children that it’s important to be hopeful. Remind your children that, even when tragedy strikes, it’s important to remain hopeful. Tell your children about how being hopeful can make it easier to cope with and prevent tragedy. Be sure to provide a good example of hopefulness to your children daily.