Resilience in a Time of War
Tips for Parents & Day-Care Providers of Preschool Children

Introduction

A time of war can be very scary for very young children, especially because terrorism has brought fear so close to home...

Events are uncertain for children. Their friends' parents, or perhaps their own parents, may be called away to serve in the military. Although you may think they are too young to understand what is happening, even very young children can absorb frightening events from the news or from conversations they overhear. You teach children so much: how to walk, how to talk, how to share. You may wonder how you can possibly teach them and reassure them during a time of war. The good news is that many children have a certain amount of natural ability to bounce back from bad events; the better news is that it is possible to teach children the skills of resilience--the ability to adapt well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or even significant sources of stress.

What are some tips that can help you teach your children resilience? As you use these tips, keep in mind that each child's journey along the road to resilience will be different and that your own knowledge of your child will guide you.

Next page: 10 Tips

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