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The other side of war


Cath Chell Director of new and exciting stuff at Learn Well


War is a big topic for us grown-ups to understand and deal with, so it’s not surprising that we find it hard to decide what we should or shouldn’t say to young children.


When children hear adults talk about war or see updates on the news, but they don’t have the understanding or vocabulary to ask questions and learn, it can result in false assumptions, varied emotions and uncertainty.


Children will likely be feeling a whole host of emotions due to the current conflict taking place between Ukraine and Russia. So, how can you as a teacher support them?


Talk about the physical geography


Try looking at a map with children to show them where Ukraine is, how big it is and which countries touch its borders.


Ask your class if anyone has ever visited Ukraine or who has visited countries surrounding it and what do they know about the country? Discuss how many people live there and how that compares to the UK.


Explain the reasons why war takes place


Historically wars tend to be about territory, and this one is no different. To help you give a simple explanation to children: a leader decides that they want what you’ve got, and they are willing to send their soldiers to fight for it.


This simplistic starting point of war gives the perfect opportunity to talk about the mini ‘wars’ and conflicts that are a feature of home, playground, and classroom life. Mention the feelings of jealousy (‘I want what you have got’) and anger (‘I haven’t been treated fairly’). These two emotions play a huge part in conflict and war.


Let’s talk about jealousy…


Jealousy is not always an easy emotion to recognise, but it tells us what we want in life and everyone feels it sometimes. Recognising the feeling, accepting it and talking about it is essential as it’s part of being human.


Many feelings of jealousy arise in the rough and tumble of family or school life. Seize the opportunity to learn about the importance of difference and sharing. What feelings come from sharing?


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