What to say when your child is afraid of raids

What to say when your child is afraid of raids

First, listen

• "What have you heard?"
• "What's on your mind?"
• "How does that make you feel?"

Name the feeling

• "It sounds like you're scared. That makes sense."
• "Lots of kids feel this way right now."

Tell the truth, with comfort

• "I don't know everything that will happen, and I am right here with you."
• "Grown ups are working hard to keep you safe."

For a young child

• "If I'm ever late, ____________ will pick you up."
• "____________ will make your dinner and put you to bed until I come."

For a school age child

• "Keeping our family safe is the grown ups' job, not yours."
• "Your job is to tell me how you feel. Would you help me pick where we keep our important papers?"

For a teen

• "I'll be honest with you, even when I don't have all the answers."
• "Let's go over our family plan together."

Every day

• Same meals, bedtime and school routine
• Less news and fewer videos, for kids and adults
• One calm thing together: drawing, a walk, singing, prayer or slow breaths
• Say: "You can come to me any time."

Call for help if fear lasts for weeks, gets worse, or stops sleep, eating or school. Child's doctor: ____________ San Mateo County residents, ACCESS: (800) 686-0101 Santa Clara County residents, BHS: (800) 704-0900 Crisis: call or text 988. Spanish: press 2, or text AYUDA to 988.

From Children Afraid of Raids. Facts checked October 21, 2026. Free information, not legal or medical advice.