SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – In today’s digital age, children are exposed to news and political discussions at an earlier age than ever before. From social media platforms to casual conversations with peers, kids are encountering complex topics that can be challenging for parents to navigate. This exposure has led many parents to question how their children will process and respond to such information.
Sandra Anzua Fischer, a community outreach coordinator for South Dakota Voices for Peace, emphasizes the importance of teaching children values like love, kindness, and empathy. She believes that children often reflect the behaviors and attitudes of their parents. “If I don’t teach my children how to love and be kind and have empathy for other children, then that’s a reflection of me,” she said. “We have to have these conversations with our kids, especially mine.”
Fischer, who was born in the U.S. but whose parents immigrated from Mexico, didn’t start learning English until fifth grade. As a mother, she knows she cannot shield her children from difficult experiences, but she hopes they will grow up to be open-minded and confident in themselves.
She shared a personal story about her son receiving a Mexico soccer jersey for Christmas. She and her husband had to sit down with him to discuss how it might be perceived at school. “How he can respond to those questions kindly and with fact-based knowledge is that he is Hispanic and he proudly has a Hispanic mom. There is nothing wrong with having a Mexican jersey,” she explained. “There are always two different things you have to have conversations with when it comes to kids, but you also have to keep it in a way where it’s not fear. I want my children to not be in fear, but knowledge is power.”
Building a trusting and open relationship with children from an early age is essential for fostering honest and meaningful conversations. Dr. Wallace Jackmon, a licensed psychologist, highlights the importance of parents being aware of their own reactions and feelings when discussing sensitive topics. “It’s important for parents to be cognizant of their own reactions and how they’re feeling and what their thoughts and views on either end of the spectrum are regarding whatever that topic or issue might be,” he said.
Setting boundaries and limits can also help children and adults manage their time spent on social media, which has been shown to increase anxiety. Justin Falon, a licensed counselor of mental health, suggests that children should not expect complete privacy. “I think that’s something that parents have gotten away from is allowing young kids to kind of police themselves,” he said. “Things change rapidly in a teenager’s life, so I think parents should be checking every day, even if it seems redundant. You never want your child to feel alone.”
For people of all ages, watching the news can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. It’s crucial for parents to remember that it’s okay not to be perfect. Open dialogue, active listening, and consistent support are key elements in helping children navigate the complexities of the world around them. By maintaining a supportive environment, parents can empower their children to understand and engage with the world in a thoughtful and informed manner.