The events of September 11, 2001, will stay with all of us forever. We’ll remember where we were when we heard the news, and remember who we were with, clinging to one another wondering what had happened. Fourteen years later, the wounds are still very real.
My children were babies on that day so long ago. They don’t remember it. However, it’s a day in American history that won’t be forgotten, and one that our children will be exposed to. They see the images and news footage to this day, and learn about it in school. Some images may not appropriate for younger children, and can often be scary and confusing.
How can we teach our children about 9/11 in an age appropriate way?
- Depending on their age, limit their exposure to television. Dr. Elisa Brown, who provided counseling for children nearby Ground Zero told my parents right after the attacks to limit television, and certainly news because children have a hard time dealing with the concept of videotaped footage and may think the attacks are currently happening.
- Keep lines of communication open. Allow them to ask questions and keep your answers age appropriate. Let their questions guide the conversation.
- Don’t overwhelm them. They don’t need to know everything about the events all at once.
- Don’t be afraid to talk about it. Sadly, the events are a part of reality and not talking about it doesn’t make it better because they will hear about it somewhere else.
- Mention the positives — although many lives were lost, mention how many inspiring stories of survival there are, talk about great things people that survived the attacks are doing, and how it brought people together.
- Watch age appropriate documentaries about 9/11. Netflix has some options, and your local library will most likely have books and videos on the topic as well.
- Use the opportunity to honor first responders like firemen, policemen, military, and paramedics and share stories about their heroic acts of bravery, sacrifice, and kindness.
