Parenting is hard. If you add in political unrest, war in foreign countries, and uncertainties that go along with all of that - it becomes even harder. It's important that St. Luke's be a place where you can find resources where we can walk alongside your parenting journey. In light of what is currently happening in the Middle East, we recognize that many of our friends and neighbors might have a direct relation to the violence that is happening. Pastor Eric Burton-Krieger who has recently relocated to Atlanta, GA shared with us an email that was sent from his daughter's new school, The Children's School to help parents navigate these unsettled times.

We encourage you to read their message, and utilize these extraordinary resources when your kids might be asking tough questions that come with big feelings. Thank you to Roslyn Benjamin, Head of School at TCS, Atlanta for allowing us to share their message and resources with you.

From The Children's School:

During these early days of the Israel-Hamas war, we’re inundated with images of kidnapping, killing and suffering. The images of conflict and the tragic loss of innocent lives may have stirred strong emotions.

These recent attacks on Israel resonate deeply within Jewish communities across the globe, and we mourn alongside them over the loss of innocent lives in the region. The sense of vulnerability is all too real, and it is a stark reminder of the complexities of the world that our children are growing up in.

Resources:

While we teach about conflict over land or water rights and/or belief systems within our curriculum, your children are seeing it happening in real time. Developmentally, it is appropriate for children to seek the truth and argue about what’s right or wrong, fair or unfair. Some children will have questions and may want more information about the attacks and reassurance about their safety.

Here are some resources that you can use to talk about the attacks and war with your children. Remember, only answer the question your child asks. Often, they want to know that they are safe.

• How to Talk to Kids About What's Happening in Israel Right Now: This article from Kveller shares balanced scripts parents and family members can use with their children based on their age range.
• Resilience in a Time of War (Young Children Version): This article from the American Psychological Association can help adults guide their young children beyond fear and to resilience.
• Resilience in a Time of War (Middle School Version): Tips for Parents, The American Psychological Association provides tips and strategies for parents and teachers of middle school-aged children.
• Helping Your Students Cope With a Violent World: Edutopia article features strategies for helping children make sense with historical perspective, feel empowered, and inspire them to feel hopeful.
• How to Talk to Kids About Violence, Crime, and War: Common Sense Media gathers tips and conversation starters to help you talk to kids of different ages about the toughest topics.
• Talking to Your Kids About War: VeryWell Family explores ways families can speak with young people about war, including tips on sharing information and restricting media coverage.
• Childmind Institute: Helping Children Cope With Frightening News
• Common Sense Media articles: "Explaining the News to our Kids" and “How to Talk to Kids About Violence, Crime, and War”
• From the American Academy of Pediatrics: "Talking to Children about Tragedies and Other News Events"

If your child is experiencing big emotions, reach out to your local school counselors, or contact Amy Boles, Director of Kids Ministry at St. Luke's for referrals. 

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