Preteens and teens are beginning to sort out the meaning of such events, and are refining their own values regarding war. Adults should be available to gently guide and assist youth in gaining factual information, without imposing their own beliefs, since youth are impressionable and easily overwhelmed. Older children must begin to understand that everyone gets the same information, but that people have different opinions about the meaning of this information. These topics may be used for school reports or debates. Maintain a Regular Routine Children and teens need the security of a consistent routine.
Research indicates that behavioral problems increase when schedules are inconsistent and disruptive.
Every attempt should be made to return your child to his or her regular bedtime routine. The exposure to war reports, when regularly scheduled television programs are interrupted, may disrupt the routine. Since television brings war into the home, adults must closely monitor viewing. Turn the television off to protect young children from hearing and seeing the violence of war. Their inability to distinguish real from fantasy could intensify fears.