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Supporting Our Children
Immediate Steps to Spiritually Bolster Kids During the War
By Mimi Doe
There have been mornings where I've removed the newspaper's front page from the kitchen table so my children, ages 12 and 15, wouldn't have to face the harsh images of war so soon in their day.
Talk, Listen, Talk and Listen Some More
Don't assume that your 5-year-old is "oblivious" to world events, or your cynical teen won't talk to you anyway. I'm hearing from parents across the country whose children of all ages are experiencing depression and anxiety with the resulting tummy troubles and headaches. These kids are having trouble falling asleep, and when they finally enter dreamland, nightmares of war shake them awake. Make yourself available to listen to your kids – turn off the music in the car, take a walk after dinner, sit on the edge of their beds for an extra five minutes at night.
Take Action
The key to supporting your child's spirit is to replace images of disaster with activities of hope. Come up with ways you might reach out together. Your son or daughter might be inspired to write letters or send pictures to U.S. Military personnel. Send to the address below and they will be distributed to soldiers abroad: Support Our Soldiers
P.O. Box 1928
Round Rock, TX 78680
If your teens are old enough to give blod, now might be a great time to schedule an appointment with your local Red Cross. Go to www.redcross.org or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE.


