How to teach kids about democracy in an easy and entertaining way
Addressing the topic of armed conflict with children might seem like a challenging task, but it is vital for their socio-emotional development. Children aged 3 to 8 are in a stage where they are very curious and learning to understand the world around them. When they hear about wars and conflicts, it is natural for them to feel fear or anxiety. Therefore, it is important to try to explain things in a way they can understand and easily assimilate. Ask them what they know and listen carefully; this will allow you to adapt to their level of understanding before proceeding with the explanation.
The key is to use simple and non-technical language. It is essential to adapt our words to the age and maturity level of the kids. You can start by describing in very general terms what an armed conflict is, maybe using simple examples they can understand. Make sure to be honest and not hide information, but it's also unnecessary to go into details that might be disturbing. Remember that taking their questions seriously and answering them clearly will help them trust you.
It is crucial to validate the children's emotions when we address these topics. Some may feel scared, others anxious or worried. After talking about the armed conflict, it's a good idea to engage in activities that distract and relax them, such as playing, listening to music, or doing crafts. This way, not only do you help them process their emotions, but you also aid them in overcoming them, teaching them that they can count on you to talk about difficult issues.
Furthermore, it is fundamental to educate in values and create an environment of respect and solidarity at home. Empathy and assertive communication should be constant tools to resolve everyday conflicts. Use daily situations as examples to explain what happens in armed conflicts and encourage your children to find peaceful ways to solve problems. This will not only help them better understand the world but will also foster a mindset of peace and cooperation.
At Cuentología, we understand how important it is to touch on these topics with children, which is why we have created audiobooks that address similar situations in a playful and educational manner. For example, in our story "To the Teeth," we show how a conflict situation could change if instead of using force, dialogue and agreement are sought. Through the story of Gumaro the crocodile and Leoncio the lion, children will learn about the importance of resolving conflicts by talking and not resorting to violence. This simple narration can be an excellent tool for parents to explain to their children the negative effects of conflict and war, and how it is always better to seek peaceful solutions.
