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'It's okay to feel scared': How UAE parents can help kids cope with war news
As news of the conflict between Iran and Israel dominates media channels, children in the UAE are increasingly exposed to distressing images, headlines, and adult conversations that may overwhelm their emotional capacity.
Mental health experts are urging parents to initiate age-appropriate discussions to help children understand what they are seeing and hearing.
Instead of waiting for children to ask questions, especially when they may already feel scared or confused, parents are encouraged to start the conversation gently. A simple statement like, 'You might have heard people talking about serious things happening in the world. If you're ever worried or confused, I'm always here to talk,' can go a long way in building a sense of safety and emotional openness.
'Starting these conversations early helps prevent children from forming misguided conclusions based on social media or overheard conversations,' Gayatri Govind Gajjam, a clinical psychologist at Aster DYU Child Development Centre, told Khaleej Times.
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Age-specific responses
Gajjam explained children's responses to war and conflict vary significantly based on their developmental stage:
Under 7: Young children interpret the world largely through imagination. Without a clear sense of geography, they may perceive distant events as immediate threats.
Ages 7–12: As logical thinking develops, children begin to understand cause and effect, which may trigger anxiety, especially around the safety of loved ones.
Teenagers: Adolescents process the moral and ethical dimensions of war more deeply. They may respond with frustration, sadness, anger, or a desire to take action while also feeling helpless.
She noted that it's important to acknowledge what children feel. 'Simple affirmations like 'It's okay to feel scared' or 'I understand this is confusing' can be very validating," she added.
Watch for emotional overload
Dr Shaju George, Psychiatrist at International Modern Hospital Dubai, warned that children may exhibit signs of emotional distress following media exposure or discussions at home. 'If a child becomes unusually anxious, asks repeated safety-related questions, or withdraws from activities, it could indicate they are overwhelmed,' he said.
He advised parents to let children guide the depth of the conversation. 'Answer their questions honestly, but simply — and only as much as they want to know. Avoid sharing your own stress or using fear-inducing language.'
Terms like " people are killing each other ' or 'this could become World War III" can be traumatic. Instead, experts suggest highlighting humanitarian efforts, such as doctors, peacekeepers, and aid workers, to model empathy and resilience.
Dr Sumit Lakhanpal, specialist paediatrician at Aster Clinic, Liwan, emphasised the importance of reassurance. 'Children need to hear that they are safe, that peace will return, and that adults are working to resolve the situation,' he said. He encouraged parents to use simple, honest language and to monitor their children's media exposure closely.
'Be mindful of graphic content and limit the amount of news and social media your children consume. It's also important to watch for changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or general behaviour,' he added.
Creating a safe, supportive environment
Experts recommend several strategies to help children feel emotionally secure during uncertain times:
Reinforce safety at home: Remind children that their home is a safe place.
Maintain daily routines: Predictability helps children feel more in control.
Be emotionally available: Listen, validate their feelings, and offer comfort.
Limit your own news exposure around children: Your reactions can influence theirs.
Share hopeful stories: Discuss individuals who are making a positive impact and helping others.
Encourage small acts of kindness: Donating toys, writing notes of hope, or engaging in school peace initiatives can help children feel empowered.
Children often take their emotional cues from the adults around them. When parents remain calm, consistent, and compassionate, they help their children develop resilience.'
When to seek help
If a child continues to show signs of distress or anxiety, experts advise seeking support from a child psychologist or mental health professional. Early intervention can prevent long-term emotional strain and help children navigate complex feelings in a healthy, supported way.
