I waited until my seven-year-old was done with his breakfast to break the news.
Do you remember the election was yesterday?
I had to tell him: Donald Trump.
I talked him down when he would extrapolate those thoughts into declarations like Donald Trump is evil!
or Everything Donald Trump says is a lie!
I think its important not to write people off as evil.
And according to Politifact,only 70 percentof Trumps fact-checked statements are outright lies.
I shared my thoughts on why Trumps immigration positions were wrong, and why we need to accept refugees.
I explained, not for the first time,about what racism isand that its real today.
And so when I answered his question at breakfast, all of this must have come rushing back.
He immediately scrunched up his eyes and opened his mouth and wailed heavenward.
The problem is, its hard to tell how upset he really is.
We continued our discussion for a few more minutes before it was time to get dressed for school.
He seemed satisfied with the answers, and pretty soon was chattering on an unrelated topic.
I dont know when or whether he will break down crying again.
But in case it helps, here is how I approached that talk.
What I Said
Reassuring someone without adding to their fears is a fine line to walk.
These were my talking points; feel free to steal them.
But as his mother, I willalwayslove and protect him with every ounce of strength I have.
We even befriend bullies if we can.
And we can call and write some of those people to ask them to make good decisions.
The right talking points will be different for every kid.
(Did you knoweach countryhas its own president?
he asked me once, apparently in shock.)
To avoid upsetting them, dont keep the news on (or talk about it) nonstop.
Distract them, and yourself, with activities like watching a movie while hugging the bejeebers out of them.
For older kids, Common Sense Media recommends being available for conversation, but letting the child lead.
If he hears that idea and wants to talk about it, Im there for him.
But hes young enough that facts and fears are not easily distinguishable.
Children this age may misunderstand bad news andconclude that they, personally, are in immediate danger.
Common Sense recommends asking teens what they have heard and what they think of it.
Their understanding of danger will be better than a younger childs, but may still be out of proportion.
Thats the best advice I could give.
Illustration by Sam Woolley.
