How to talk about the protests with kids

What are protests mummy? This is one of many questions that my 5 year old have been asking over the last few weeks. Why are the people protesting? Why is the airport shut? Is the army good? Who tells the soldiers what to do? 

And of course the ultimate one that I want the answer to too- when will it all be over?

If you’re struggling with some of these questions- read on.

As Hong Kong goes through this unchartered period, there are many questions that our naturally curious children will ask. Personal political views aside, protests are a fact of modern life and there is no getting away from news flow in this day and age. The daily lives of our children may also be affected, whether it is just a route change or seeing army trucks rolling past, leading to more questions.

Whilst a part of me wants to protect my son from the harsh reality, I feel that it is important to answer his questions head on. And let me be clear about something: it’s hard! But I want to bring my kids up to be socially aware and compassionate and I can use this opportunity to introduce new concepts to them. I speak from my heart and answer my son’s questions one by one, to the best of my ability. 

Some topics we have been talking about in our household: dialogue, non-violence, peace, everyone being the same, forgiveness, keeping an open mind and starting small in your own actions- all big concepts that I find hard to define and explain.

Now here comes the good part- some help! Picture books are great at introducing some of these ideas. Stories and colorful pictures drive discussions and often positive messages. Reading is also part of the daily routine for us that provides stability in contrast to what is happening in the city.

“Peace is a joining, not a pulling apart. It’s the courage to bear a wounded heart.”

-      Peace is an offering, by Annette LeBox

Here are a few books that I’ve found relevant and useful, let me know what you think or any additions you may have to the list.

1.    The Peace Book by Todd Parr- Bold colors and simple words make this a good option for young children- especially those that love pizza! (Peace is having enough pizza in the world for everyone…)

2.    Peace is an Offering by Annette LeBox- a sweet poem about finding peace within your own community. 

3.    Yertle the Turtle by Dr. Seuss- a classic that is more abstract, but a fun story to explore why people (or turtles!) may be unhappy.

4.    The Forgiveness Garden by Lauren Thompson- more suitable for older children, but a relatable story about coming together and forgiveness versus revenge. 

Enjoy the books and please help me share this post and hopefully positive message! Please do share with me your own experiences and any tips on discussing these topics with children! 

Jane

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