How to talk to your children about Hamas's invasion of Israel

At the same time, with our parent "hat", we need to give thought to how our children are experiencing and processing the news and how to both inform and reassure them in age-appropriate ways.

As parents, to support our children’s emotional responses we need to validate their feelings, make time to be emotionally present with them even though this might be uncomfortable and reassure them that they are safe and looked after.

Different family members usually respond very differently to threat and fear so it is important to be compassionate and accepting as there is no particular correct response. Children might have lots of questions or they might have very few - each child is different.

Often, their worries or questions might come up exactly when we are preoccupied with something else or about to go to bed. This can be frustrating but it is normal. When parents focus on something else or are trying to unwind at the end of the day children can sense the distance and sometimes this makes them more anxious particularly during times of uncertainty and potential danger.

Some families have a particular time during the day in which they sit as a family and can focus on and discuss the crisis. Children know that if their parents are busy or can’t respond fully at other times, at least they will have the opportunity for more conversation at a later point. This may work for some families but not be helpful for others.

There is no better time then now to remember to put down our phones. It is important to keep informed but it is also important to limit our own and our children’s exposure to the news. Some of the footage is shocking and graphic and it is important to make sure that younger children do not see it. And, if we are constantly engrossed in our phones, we risk being emotionally unavailable to a child who may be observing.

If older teens want to have more exposure, and parents say no, chances are that they will access the footage anyway from friends or social media. It is important to be as open and non-judgemental with your children at this time so that if they have watched something disturbing they feel like they can come to you for support.

As well as taking your parenting responsibilities seriously, parents also need to know that they are not alone. The Jewish community and our wider networks are all mobilised during this time. Although you may be the most important adult caring for your child, you are not the only one.

Contact school teachers, pastoral support, older relatives and close friends to join together to support your child. If your child is struggling significantly you can also reach out to professionals for more support. It can also be helpful to contact your children’s friends’ parents so that you can all reassure each other.

During these uncertain times we need to lean on each other more than ever. If your child is doing ok, why not reach out to other families and check in with their children to see if you can support someone else.

Finally, we feel so helpless during this time and feel that we can do little to control the terrifying situation in the Middle East. But there are many ways in which we can get involved from afar to support the Israeli soldiers and communities.

From raising and donating money to making cards to be distributed in Israel. Each of these activities is a way of playing our part. Jewish schools are gathering together to say prayers for Israel which is a powerful way to make a difference.

If you and your children would benefit from these initiatives get involved. Even in a small way, your contribution can make a difference. May this horrific situation end swiftly and may we all hear good news in the near future.