From political tensions to natural disasters, the news can trigger complex, unsettling emotions and negatively impact mental health. Most children and adolescents encounter current events through social media or friends rather than traditional outlets like newspapers or the evening news on television. This raises concerns about misinformation and sensationalism in the news stories they encounter, especially with the rise of AI-generated content. As trusted adults, healthcare providers and caregivers carry the crucial responsibility of helping youth navigate the news.
Before engaging in conversation, take a moment to reflect on your own reactions to the news. Aim to model appropriate, emotionally mature responses. Be calm even when you do not feel that way inside. Children often learn more by observing your behaviors than from hearing your words. Equip yourself with accurate information from credible news sources so you can address questions thoughtfully. However, it is okay if you do not know all of the answers. This provides an opportunity to search for trustworthy information together and demonstrate how to find reliable sources.
When starting a conversation, consider the youth’s developmental age (this may or may not be the same as their chronological age):
- Ages 7 and younger: Avoid direct exposure to the news. At this stage, children do not need to stay updated on current events, and exposure to graphic images and videos may cause unnecessary distress. They may be unable to differentiate reality from their fantasies and fears. If they encounter the news unintentionally, validate their feelings and reassure them of their safety.
- Ages 8 to 12: Limited, age-appropriate exposure may be acceptable. Start by asking what they already know and where they are getting their information. Use parental controls if necessary. Correct misinformation, answer questions honestly but without oversharing, and validate their emotions. This age group may begin grappling with moral questions. Avoid labeling individuals as “bad” or “evil,” and instead frame harmful actions as the result of pain, poor choices, or complex circumstances.
- Ages 13 and older: As children enter adolescence, it becomes increasingly difficult to monitor their exposure to the news. They begin forming their own opinions on what they see and hear. Create safe spaces for open discussion, even if you disagree with their opinions. Listen without judgment, encourage respectful debate, and allow them to explore their thoughts and emotions. Help them think beyond the surface of a news story and consider why it may have been featured. Was the goal to inform people about an important event or to gain more TikTok followers? Such questions can strengthen critical thinking skills and help teens learn to recognize and filter misinformation on their own.
In addition to conversation, encourage youth to process current events through play, art or creative writing. Highlight stories of people helping in difficult situations, and consider engaging in positive action together, such as volunteering or advocating for a cause they care about. These activities can foster a greater sense of control and hope.
While we cannot shield youth from every upsetting current event, our responses can help them feel safe, think critically, and build resilience. Ultimately, the goal is to guide them toward becoming informed, discerning and healthy consumers of the news.
References
Knorr C, Mares M. Explaining the news to our kids. Common Sense Media. Updated July 15, 2024. Accessed August 12, 2025. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/explaining-the-news-to-our-kids
Neighmond P. When the news is scary, what to say to kids. NPR. Updated April 24, 2019. Accessed August 12, 2025. https://www.npr.org/2019/04/24/716704917/when-the-news-is-scary-what-to-say-to-kids
Walls MT. How to talk to your child about the news. KidsHealth. Updated September 2022. Accessed August 12, 2025. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/news.html
AUTHOR:
Dr. Kristen Kim, MD
Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist
Vista Hill Foundation