Armed Conflict & Kids: How to Help Children Cope with War & Trauma

Generations have understood that armed conflict is detrimental to children and all living things. But in a world saturated with images of loss and grief from ongoing conflicts, parents understandably worry about the impact on their own children—and children globally.

The AAP also recognizes the need for research on how armed conflict impacts the health and well-being of children in the United States, acknowledging that even violence occurring far away can affect children’s sense of safety, emotional health, and daily life.

4 Ways Armed Conflict Harms Children

Children living in conflict zones—or in areas experiencing outbreaks of armed violence—face four serious risks to their health.

1. Physical Threats. Children in conflict zones may suffer injuries, often exacerbated by limited access to medical care. Food insecurity, poor hygiene, and the constant threat of harm also impact growing bodies.

2. Mental Threats. Experiencing armed conflict can trigger grief, anxiety, and depression, and worsen existing physical health conditions.

3. Loss of Safe Spaces for Play and Learning. When schools, homes, and community centers are destroyed, children lose the nurturing environment essential for play, learning, and exploration.

4. Shattered Families. Children suffer when parents or caregivers are killed, imprisoned, or displaced. They may endure hardship as refugees, facing scarcity of food, clean water, and medical care. In extreme cases, children themselves may be imprisoned or separated from their families.

How Global Conflicts Affect Children Everywhere

Globally, over 520 million children and adolescents—one in five—live in armed conflict zones. Even families far from active conflict can experience stress and anxiety from news and social media coverage. Children may ask difficult questions, such as “Could this happen to us?” or express concern for those directly affected.

Refugee and immigrant children attend schools in the United States, meaning children may share classrooms with peers who have experienced trauma from armed conflict. Fostering understanding of others’ experiences can build empathy and resilience.

Conflicts in other countries can also have ripple effects on the U.S., impacting the economy, food supplies, prescription drug availability, and medical research.

armed violence isn’t limited to overseas conflicts. Some children in the United States experience violence in their own communities, including gang-related violence, which can affect their sense of safety and well-being.

Recognizing Worry in Your Child

Children and teens often react strongly to images, stories, or rumors about violent events. The specific reactions will vary based on age, overall health, and personality. Parents might notice:

• Behavioral Changes: Difficulty sleeping, increased fighting, or a desire for more alone time.
• Emotional Changes: Signs of fear, sadness, nervousness, or clinginess that are unusual for the child.
• Physical Changes: Headaches, stomachaches, or body aches triggered by stress.

Comforting and Supporting Your Child

These suggestions can help reassure your child or support a young family member, neighbor, classmate, or friend.

• Talk Openly and Honestly: Ask children what they’ve seen or heard that worries them. Encourage them to share their thoughts, emphasizing that it’s okay to be afraid or anxious. Listen attentively and tailor your responses to their age and understanding.
• Create Feelings of Safety: Reinforce daily routines that provide nourishment, rest, and emotional support.
• Limit Screen Time: Be aware of what your child is watching and consider co-viewing content. Limit exposure to news about armed conflict, especially graphic coverage. Creating a Family Media Plan can help shield children from harmful content.
• Encourage Creative Play: Engaging in art, music, writing, or attending cultural events can remind children that the world still holds beauty and joy.
• Seek Professional Help: If your child exhibits serious symptoms, consult their doctor. Pediatricians can provide guidance and connect families with mental health specialists.

Modeling a Commitment to Children Everywhere

Supporting reputable global organizations that deliver food or medical care in conflict zones, resettlement groups assisting refugees, or advocates working to protect children worldwide can be beneficial.

Teaching kindness and empathy at home—through acts of service like volunteering at a soup kitchen or supporting a local shelter—can also demonstrate to children that people can help each other recover, even in difficult times.

Remember

While parents cannot stop armed conflict, they can help children feel safe, supported, and resilient. Small actions can make a significant difference for children who feel threatened or stressed by global events. Simply listening and validating your child’s feelings can open the door to further support.

Your pediatrician or family doctor can provide assistance if concerns about armed conflict threaten your child’s health. Don’t hesitate to reach out.