How To Talk To Your Kids About Tragedy

When tragedy strikes—like the recent devastating floods in Texas—parents often feel torn between protecting their children and keeping them informed. The truth is, our kids are taking it all in whether we talk to them about it or not. 

 

What they need most is us—our calm presence, honest words, and open hearts.

 

There’s no perfect script. Every child is different, and every age requires a different level of conversation. But with a little guidance, you can create a safe space for your child to process what they’re seeing and feeling.

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Step One: Start With Presence

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Before diving into any explanations, check in with yourself. Are you regulated? Calm enough to support them emotionally? Your tone, facial expressions, and openness will speak volumes.

 

Try to remember to:

• Be honest, but age-appropriate.

• Let them ask the questions.

• Validate their emotions.

• Be their safe place—not the internet.

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Talking to Young Kids (Ages 3–7)

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Young children don’t need all the scary details. They need simplicity, safety, and reassurance.

 

What to say:

“Some places had really bad rain and flooding, and some people got hurt. But we are safe here, and there are a lot of helpers working hard to keep others safe too.”

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“It’s okay to feel sad or confused. I’m here to answer any questions.”

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“If you ever feel worried, you can always come talk to me.”

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Let them play, draw, or ask repeat questions—that’s how they process at this age.

 

Talking to School-Aged Kids (Ages 8–12)

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Kids this age are more aware and often hear things from friends or online. 

They can handle more information, but still need you to be their anchor.

 

What to say:

“Yes, the floods were serious. Some people are hurting or lost their homes. It’s okay to feel upset about that.”

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“When something sad or scary happens, it’s normal to ask ‘why?’ I ask those same questions too.”

 

“We can’t always fix everything, but we can care. If you’d like, we can help in a small way—like donating or writing a card.”

 

This age benefits from doing—helping others can ease their anxiety.

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Talking to Teens (Ages 13+)

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Teens may appear desensitized or disengaged, but often they’re internalizing everything. They need space to explore hard emotions and the permission to say when they feel overwhelmed.

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What to say:

“Yeah, it’s a lot to take in. I don’t have all the answers either—but I’m always here to talk about it with you.”

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“What have you seen or heard about the flood? Let’s unpack that together.”

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“It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when the world feels so heavy. Want to take a break from the news for a bit?”

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Keep conversations two-way. Ask for their thoughts. Be curious, not corrective.

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It’s Also Okay to Say…

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• “I don’t know.”

• “That’s a hard question. I wonder the same thing sometimes.”

• “Let’s sit with this together.”

• "I am here to answer any questions you have."

• "Let's see what the helpers are doing to find some hope."

• “Want to talk about something good for a little while?”

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These phrases let your child know it’s okay to live in the gray area—and that you’re human and there with them.

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When Words Aren’t Enough

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Comfort doesn’t always come in conversation. 

Sometimes it's:

• Sitting in silence

• Drawing a picture

• Saying a prayer or lighting a candle

• Listening to uplifting music

• Writing a letter or journaling

• Doing something kind for others

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Empathy in action can be just as healing as a heartfelt talk.

 

Final Thought

There is no perfect way to talk to your child about tragedy—

but there is a powerful way: showing up. 

 

Your kids don’t need all the answers. They just need you.

Let the conversation be messy, honest, and full of love.