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Helping Children Cope in Uncertain
Times
Much is happening in the world today. Children may
feel overwhelmed or confused by what they see and
hear on TV or social media. Fear and anxiety may surface
in behavioral ways such as angry outbursts, acting
out, crying, poor sleep, or loss of appetite. Here
are a few suggestions to help them cope:
Talk with them
Use simple words to explain what is happening. Rather
than allowing them to learn solely from online sources
or television, help them understand in age-appropriate
ways about sin, suffering, pain, death, and the hope
of heaven. Normalize their feelings and experiences.
Check in with them often, as emotions can change quickly.
Acknowledge their questions about faith and answer
them honestly. It is okay to admit that we may not
understand everything or know what the future holds—but
God does, and He is fully in control.
Teach them to pray over their fears and concerns
(Philippians 4:6)
Prayer – Letting God know how we feel and listening
for what He may want to tell us.
Petition – Appealing to a higher authority,
trusting that God is mighty and willing to help.
Thanksgiving – Remembering and praising God
for His grace, His works, and His perfect plans. Taking
turns thanking God can be uplifting and meaningful.
Requests – Our prayers are humble requests,
not rights or demands. We can share our heart’s
desires while trusting God to answer according to
His will.
Show them what it looks like to bring concerns to
God rather than carrying them alone. When they hear
you pray, express gratitude, and speak words of faith
instead of fear, they learn that trusting God is a
practical part of everyday life. A spirit of contentment—being
thankful for what God has provided today—helps
children see that our peace does not come from circumstances,
but from our confidence in God’s love, presence,
and care.
Model a life of balance and contentment
Children often learn most from what they see and hear
in us. When adults respond to uncertainty with calmness,
trust in God, and healthy rhythms of life, children
feel safer and more secure. While it is natural to
care about what is happening in the world, try not
to become consumed by constant news or social media.
Demonstrate balance by setting reasonable limits on
media, maintaining regular routines, and making time
for prayer, rest, family connection, and enjoyable
activities.
It is also important to guard our speech. Children
listen carefully to how adults talk about the news
and current events. Avoid spreading negative, exaggerated,
or unverified information that may create unnecessary
fear or confusion. Instead, speak thoughtfully and
responsibly, focusing on truth and hope. When discussing
difficult situations, emphasize compassion, wisdom,
and trust in God’s sovereignty.
Serve others in practical ways
Consider making a donation to organizations such as
World Vision or other reputable Christian charities
that provide emergency assistance to children and
refugees. Writing letters to government leaders or
members of the military to express support and gratitude
can also help children feel they are contributing
in meaningful ways.
Spend meaningful time together
Enjoy relaxing activities such as board games or creative
projects—art, crafts, photography, cooking,
baking, or music. Even everyday tasks like house cleaning,
tidying, or gardening can become enjoyable bonding
time when done together.
-
Exercise together
Taking walks, hikes, fishing, or other outdoor activities
can help release pent-up emotions and produce endorphins,
the body’s natural mood lifters
-
Laugh together
Create joyful memories by telling jokes/stories,
playing fun games, or watching wholesome comedies.
Laughter also releases endorphins and brings a sense
of joy.
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Treasure this opportunity
to spend meaningful time together as a family. This
season will pass.
Above all, remember God’s character.
He is able to make all things work together for the
good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
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Article on
by Isabel Ng |
