Tips on supporting children through uncertain times

Seeing images and hearing about war and conflict can be extremely distressing for children. In this blog, Norland Early Years Consultant Georgina Hester shares her guidance on helping children feel safe, understood and supported when the world feels unsettled.

“As someone who has worked closely with children and families, I have seen how quickly children pick up on the emotional environment around them. During uncertain times, it is entirely natural for parents, carers and nannies to wonder how best to support the children in their care, particularly when we may ourselves be feeling unsettled. Whether it’s conflict, political unrest, or unsettling global news, these tensions can stir up worry, fear and helplessness – emotions children may easily pick up on.

“Although events may feel distant, the emotional impact on children can be real. No matter how hard we try to shield them, children often sense that something is not quite right. They pick up on changes in routine, overhear conversations, or simply notice a change in the emotional environment around them. This can, in turn, affect their behaviour, sleep, mood, or overall wellbeing.

“If you are feeling concerned about how to support the children in your care right now, you are not alone. Drawing on the knowledge and principles taught through our BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care degree and Norland diploma, here is some practical guidance to help you feel more confident supporting children during emotionally turbulent times. While the world may feel unpredictable, the most powerful support you can offer is already within you.”

Georgi Bassil, Early Years Lecturer at Norland, stood smiling

Start with gentle curiosity

“Children process uncertainty in different ways. They may hear worrying information from the news, friends at school, or conversations they overhear. Depending on their stage of development, they may not fully understand what is happening which can be overwhelming.

“Rather than rushing to explain, begin with curiosity.

Observe emotional cues: changes in sleep, irritability, clinginess, nightmares, physical complaints, or withdrawal can signal stress.
Don’t assume silence means they aren’t affected, quiet children may still be worrying internally.
Ask gently what they have heard and what they think it means.

“Listen carefully and observe more than you speak, this helps children have the space to feel heard. They may have many questions; you don’t need to have all the answers. Offering just enough information to answer their questions, rather than overwhelming them with detail, is often more helpful.”

Male Norland student sat on grass with a toddler and mother playing

Reassure children that they are safe

“Children borrow calm from adults around them. During uncertain times, they look to us for reassurance and emotional stability. Avoiding difficult topics altogether can increase anxiety, so aim to talk openly and calmly, using language that is at an age-appropriate level.

Explain that it is normal to feel worried or confused about big world events.
Reassure them clearly that they are safe.
Let them know there are many people working hard to keep communities safe. Talk about the many people whose job it is to keep others safe – families, teachers, emergency services, community leaders.
Acknowledge your own feelings without overwhelming them: “I feel a bit worried too, but we are safe here.”

“Children take their emotional cues from adults. When caregivers remain steady, children feel more secure. Above all, remind them that they are not alone and have a network of care through their families, teachers, neighbours, and community helpers.”

a boy playing with leaves with a student nanny

Protect children from overexposure

“Repeated exposure to distressing news and images can heighten fear and anxiety, particularly in young children. Limiting media exposure can significantly reduce this.

Be mindful of what children watch or hear, particularly before bedtime.
Where possible, watch or read the news together, so you can answer questions and clarify misunderstandings.
Encourage breaks from screens with activities that build routine and connection.

“Children’s imaginations can create scenarios far worse than reality when they don’t fully understand what they are hearing and protecting them where possible will minimise this.”

Welcome all feelings

“Children experience a wide range of emotions, and these may intensify during uncertain times. Let them know that all feelings are acceptable.

“One helpful approach during emotional moments is emotion coaching, which encourages adults to recognise, validate, and guide children through their feelings rather than dismissing or distracting from them. When we acknowledge a child’s emotions and help them name what they are experiencing, we support them in developing emotional understanding and resilience.

Validate their emotions without correcting or minimising them.
Use creative outlets such as drawing, storytelling, play, or journaling if talking feels difficult.
Help them name their feelings to build emotional understanding.
Once they feel heard, gently guide them towards ways of coping or finding reassurance.

“Remember, behaviour is often communication. What we see outwardly may reflect an inner worry or unmet need.”

Hold onto routines

“While world events may be unpredictable, with your help a child’s immediate environment can remain steady. Predictable routines help children feel secure because they know what to expect.

Maintain regular times for meals, play, learning, and rest.
Offer physical comfort when needed – a hug or calm presence can help regulate stress.
Lean into ordinary joyful moments; shared laughter and connection are deeply protective.

“Routines quietly communicate safety and stability.”

female student and young boy turning tap in bathroom to brush teeth

Take care of yourself

“Supporting children through uncertainty can be emotionally draining, especially while managing your own feelings. As you help create the emotional climate around them, it’s important to ensure you take care of yourself as well as the child.

Model how you regulate your own emotions, you do not need to be perfectly calm.
Reach out to supportive friends, family, or professionals if you feel overwhelmed.
Create small moments of calm in your day.

“Your steady presence is one of the most powerful stabilisers you can offer.”

Final thoughts

“Children do not need perfect answers during uncertain times. What they need most is connection, reassurance and a sense of safety. By listening carefully, speaking honestly and maintaining loving, predictable environments, we help them build resilience that will support them long beyond the present moment.

“And remember – none of us are facing this alone. Staying connected and caring for one another truly makes all the difference.”