09/15/2026
When Kids Ask About Big Things: How Adults Can Respond
The 25th anniversary of September 11th was a reminder of how certain events can leave a lasting impression on all of us. For adults, memories of that day may be deeply personal. For children and teens, events like 9/11 that occurred before their birth may prompt questions about topics they are just beginning to understand.
Today, children are exposed to news and conversations about wars, violence, political disagreements, natural disasters, social issues, and other difficult events, sometimes before we even realize they’ve heard about them.
They may ask: “Why did that happen?” “Could that happen here?” “Are we safe?” “Why are people fighting?”
These questions can be difficult for parents to answer, especially when we don’t have all the answers ourselves.
So, what can parents and other adults in our children’s lives do?
✔ Listen first. Find out what your child already knows and what they’re actually worried about.
✔ Keep it age-appropriate. Answer honestly, but avoid overwhelming children with details they aren’t ready to process.
✔ It’s okay to say, “I don’t know.” You don’t need to have every answer. Let your child know that you’re willing to talk, listen, and learn together.
✔ Make space for their feelings. Children may feel scared, confused, angry, or sad. Let them know that their feelings are okay and that they can come to you with questions.
✔ Pay attention to changes in behavior. Increased worry, difficulty sleeping, irritability, withdrawal, or repeatedly asking the same questions may be signs that your child is having difficulty processing what they’ve heard.
You don’t have to have the perfect answer. Sometimes, simply being willing to listen and talk is the most important thing you can do.
At The Kendal Clinic, we support children ages 6+, teens, and families as they navigate difficult emotions, life transitions, and the challenges of growing up in a complicated world.
When the questions feel big, we’re here to help.