Since the story was so prevalent, as it should be, it is likely that children saw news stories or heard adults talking about it. As with any great disaster, natural or man made, children will have questions about what they saw and it may be difficult to explain to them how a loving God can allow such heartbreak and devastation. As adults, it's hard for us to comprehend and to remember that Gods promise to us is not that we will not experience hardships, but that when we do, He will be there- we will not be alone.
So, how do we talk to our children about hard topics like this? First of all, feel free to share that your heart is breaking too, that even as an adult, you are saddened and confused by what has happened. If you feel helpless, say so- children need to know that their parents have feelings too and understand what they are feeling. With that said, acknowledge your feelings, but don't dwell. Stress to your children the faith that you are drawing on.
Times of stress and difficulty are great times to remind ourselves and our families that the Bible teaches us that God is with us through all things and that we can endure all things through Christ (Philippians 4:13). The verse "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10) provides me with a great deal of comfort when life is chaotic and it seems like I cannot make sense of it- it's easy to remember to be still and comforting to know that God is taking over.
It is important that we remember to remind our children that they are safe and that we give them ways to feel like they are helping out. They can contribute to the various aide organizations or churches going to the Philippines to help. Every child can pray- prayer is powerful, and children who learn the power of prayer early in life, benefit greatly from the peace and contentment that comes from a close relationship with Christ- knowing that He is in control. Even when children want to pray and aren't sure what to pray- we can remind them of Romans 8:26-27 "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God."
Perhaps most importantly is to answer your children's questions honestly, but be aware of the information you are giving them. Balance your childs personality- how sensitive is she, how aware of current events is he, how old is he- with their desire for more information. When possible, don't tell a child "Don't worry, this is grown up stuff". If a child is asking, they are worried already- provide them with age appropriate information, and remind them that in the end our loving God is in control of all things- then pray with them and give thanks for your family.
Several months ago, I heard the Children of the World Choir singing at my local church. They are an impressive group of children from all over the world who come together to sing Gods praises. The video below is of a song that has stayed in my heart since I have heard them sing. This video was not taken in my church, in fact it was taken a few years prior, but the song is catchy and the message pertinent in todays times. I hope you all find it as entertaining as I do!
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